Arcus juvenilis is a medical term used to describe a white or grayish ring that appears around the cornea of the eye. The word "arcus" is spelled with a long "a" sound and the "u" is pronounced like "oo". "Juvenilis" is spelled with a "j" sound and the "i" is pronounced like a long "e". The word is pronounced as "ahr-kuhs joo-vuh-nil-is" in IPA phonetic transcription. This condition can occur with age, but can also indicate high cholesterol levels or other health issues.
Arcus juvenilis is a medical term used to describe a specific condition characterized by a white or grayish-colored ring that forms around the periphery of the cornea in young individuals. This condition, also known as arcus senilis juvenilis or corneal arcus, can sometimes be inherited, although it is not usually associated with any underlying medical conditions.
The term "arcus" refers to a curved or arch-like shape, while "juvenilis" means pertaining to youth or young age. The arcus juvenilis typically develops before the age of 40, distinguishing it from arcus senilis, which occurs in older individuals as a normal age-related change. It starts as a thin line or band at the edge of the cornea and gradually progresses into a complete or partial ring that encircles the cornea.
Arcus juvenilis occurs due to the deposition of lipids, particularly cholesterol and triglycerides, in the cornea. This may happen as a result of lipid metabolism abnormalities or genetic factors. While it is generally considered a benign condition and does not cause any symptoms, it can sometimes be associated with other metabolic disorders, such as hyperlipidemia or high cholesterol levels.
The presence of arcus juvenilis can often be detected during routine eye examinations. It may be important for medical professionals to assess other risk factors and conduct further investigations to rule out any underlying medical conditions or lipid metabolism disorders. Treatment for arcus juvenilis is typically unnecessary unless it is accompanied by other significant health concerns.
A grayish ring at the corneal margin of the iris, resembling the a. senilis, but occurring in a young person.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
The term arcus juvenilis has its etymology rooted in Latin. Arcus means bow or arch in Latin, while juvenilis means youthful or young. Thus, when combined, arcus juvenilis translates to youthful bow or young arch.
This term is often used in dermatology to describe a rainbow-like shape that appears on the white part of the eye (sclera). It is more commonly known as Arcus Senilis, which translates to old arch or senile arch.