Anterior uveitis is a type of uveitis which affects the front part of the uvea, the middle layer of the eye that contains blood vessels. The spelling of "Anterior Uveitis" can be explained using the International Phonetic Alphabet (IPA) transcription. The word "Anterior" is pronounced /ænˈtɪriə(r)/, with the stress on the second syllable. The word "Uveitis" is pronounced /juːv-/, with the first syllable rhyming with "stew" and the second syllable sounding like "vee-tis". Correct spelling and pronunciation of medical terms is crucial for effective communication between healthcare professionals and patients.
Anterior uveitis, also known as iritis or iridocyclitis, is a medical condition characterized by inflammation of the iris and the anterior (front) part of the uvea, which is the pigmented middle layer of the eye. This condition affects the front section of the uvea that includes the iris, ciliary body, and the adjacent area of the choroid.
Symptoms of anterior uveitis may include eye redness, pain, sensitivity to light, blurred vision, and increased tearing. Patients may also experience a small or irregularly shaped pupil, which may not constrict properly in response to light.
Anterior uveitis is commonly classified as either acute or chronic. Acute anterior uveitis typically has a sudden onset and lasts for a short duration, usually less than 3 months. Chronic anterior uveitis, on the other hand, persists for a longer period, extending beyond 3 months. Additionally, anterior uveitis can either be unilateral, affecting only one eye, or bilateral, affecting both eyes simultaneously.
The exact cause of anterior uveitis is often unknown, but it may be associated with autoimmune diseases, infections, or other underlying systemic conditions. Diagnosis of anterior uveitis involves a comprehensive eye examination, including evaluation of visual acuity, intraocular pressure measurement, and thorough examination of the anterior segment. Treatment varies based on the underlying cause and severity of the condition. It usually involves the use of anti-inflammatory medications, such as corticosteroids, to reduce the inflammation and manage the associated symptoms.
The term "anterior uveitis" has its etymology rooted in medical terminology.
The word "anterior" comes from the Latin word "ante", meaning "before" or "in front of". In medicine, "anterior" refers to the front or forward part of a structure or body part.
The term "uveitis" originated from the Latin word "uvea", which means "grape". The uvea is the middle layer of the eye that consists of the iris, ciliary body, and choroid. Uveitis refers to the inflammation of the uvea or any part of it.
Combining both terms, "anterior uveitis" refers to inflammation occurring in the front part of the uvea or the anterior segment of the eye.