Anisocoria is a medical term used to describe an unequal size of the pupils. Its spelling can be explained using the International Phonetic Alphabet (IPA). The first syllable, "aniso," is pronounced [ænɪsoʊ], with a short "a" sound and "s" pronounced like "z." The second syllable, "coria," is pronounced [kɔ:riə], with a long "o" sound and the stress on the first syllable. Proper spelling of technical terms like anisocoria is essential in the medical field to ensure clear communication among healthcare professionals.
Anisocoria is a medical term used to describe a condition characterized by an unequal or asymmetrical size of the pupils in the eyes. Typically, a healthy person's pupils are equally sized, which allows for equal amounts of light to enter both eyes. However, in cases of anisocoria, one pupil appears larger or smaller than the other, leading to an imbalance in the amount of light that reaches the retina.
Anisocoria can be classified as physiological or pathological. Physiological anisocoria refers to a naturally occurring difference in pupil size that does not cause any underlying health concerns. This condition is usually benign and does not cause any symptoms or visual disturbances. On the other hand, pathological anisocoria is caused by an underlying medical condition or injury, potentially leading to other symptoms such as blurred vision, eye pain, or sensitivity to light.
Common causes of pathological anisocoria include Horner's syndrome, Adie's pupil, third cranial nerve palsy, or trauma to the eye. It is important to note that anisocoria can also be a symptom of a more serious condition like brain tumor or aneurysm, demanding immediate medical attention.
Diagnosing anisocoria involves a comprehensive eye examination, which may include assessments of visual acuity, pupillary reflexes, and an evaluation of the eye structures. The treatment of anisocoria depends on the underlying cause. While some cases may not require any intervention, others may necessitate the management of the underlying condition to alleviate symptoms and restore equal pupil size.
A condition in which the two pupils are not of equal size.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
The word "anisocoria" originates from the Greek language. It is derived from two Greek words: "anisos", meaning unequal, and "kore", meaning pupil. Hence, combining the two, "anisocoria" refers to a medical condition characterized by unequal pupil sizes.