Heterochily

Heterochily is a developmental anomaly in which there is a difference in the size and shape of the right and left halves of the body.

The term "heterochyly" comes from the Greek words "hetero-", meaning "different", and "chylos", meaning "juice". This is due to the ancient Greeks' idea that body asymmetry is caused by the uneven distribution of fluids and juices in the body.

Heterochilia can manifest itself in differences between the left and right halves of the face, the size and shape of the limbs, and the chest. Most often, heterochily is observed in the limbs, when one arm or leg is larger than the other.

The causes of heterochily may be associated with disorders of embryonic development, genetic abnormalities, and pathology of the central nervous system. In some cases, heterochily develops as a result of injury or illness after birth.

Although heterochilia usually does not pose a health threat, in severe cases it can lead to impaired motor function and require surgical correction. Treatment is aimed at eliminating functional and cosmetic defects caused by body asymmetry.