Anophthalmias is a medical term that refers to a condition where a person is born without one or both eyes. The word consists of five syllables, with the primary stress falling on the fourth syllable. It is pronounced as [ˌænɒfˈθælmɪəs], with the initial 'a' pronounced as the schwa sound. The 'phth' combination is pronounced as /t/, making it similar to the word 'ophthalmology.' The final syllable is pronounced as 'mias', rhyming with 'bias'. The correct spelling and pronunciation of medical terms are crucial for accurate diagnosis and effective treatment.
Anophthalmias is a medical term used to describe a rare congenital condition characterized by the absence or underdevelopment of one or both eyeballs. It is derived from the Greek words "an" meaning "without" and "ophthalmos" meaning "eye." Individuals born with anophthalmias typically have no visible eyes in the eye sockets, as the development of the eyes is either partially or completely halted during embryogenesis.
Anophthalmias can be attributed to various factors, including genetic mutations, chromosomal abnormalities, or environmental factors. It can also occur as a result of certain syndromes or genetic disorders, such as microphthalmia-anophthalmia-coloboma syndrome. Anophthalmias can cause significant vision loss or complete blindness, as the absence of eyes prevents light reception and visual processing.
The diagnosis of anophthalmias is usually made shortly after birth, through a physical examination of the eye sockets and confirmation of the absence of eyeballs. A further assessment may involve medical imaging techniques, such as CT scans or MRI, to rule out any other associated abnormalities.
Treatment options for anophthalmias are limited, as current medical advancements have not yet enabled complete visual restoration. However, prosthetic eyes or ocular implants can be fitted to improve the cosmetic appearance of the eye sockets and help maintain facial symmetry.
Psychological support and counseling are often offered to individuals and families affected by anophthalmias, as the condition may have emotional and social implications. Additionally, regular follow-up appointments with ophthalmologists are recommended to monitor any potential complications and provide appropriate care.
The word "anophthalmia" is derived from the Greek prefix "an-", meaning "without", and the Greek noun "ophthalmos", meaning "eye". Therefore, "anophthalmia" literally translates to "without eye(s)" in Greek.