Choroid Neovascularization (CNV) is a condition that affects the blood vessels behind the retina of the eye. The spelling of this term can be confusing, but it is helpful to understand the phonetic transcription. "Choroid" is pronounced as /ˈkɔrɔɪd/, "neo" as /niːoʊ/, "vascular" as /ˈvæskjʊlər/, and "ization" as /aɪˈzeɪʃən/. Therefore, the correct pronunciation of "Choroid Neovascularization" is /ˈkɔrɔɪd niːoʊˈvæskjʊlər əˌzaɪˈzeɪʃən/. Knowing this phonetic transcription can make it easier to spell and pronounce
Choroid neovascularization (CNV) refers to the abnormal growth of new blood vessels in the layer of the eye called the choroid. The choroid is located behind the retina and supplies oxygen and nutrients to the retina, which is essential for clear vision.
In CNV, these new blood vessels are fragile and weak, which makes them prone to leaking blood and fluid into the surrounding tissue. This leakage can cause damage to the surrounding structures, including the retina, leading to vision loss or distortion.
CNV is most commonly associated with age-related macular degeneration (AMD), a leading cause of vision loss in older adults. Other eye conditions, such as myopia (nearsightedness), ocular histoplasmosis syndrome, and some inflammatory disorders, can also lead to CNV.
Symptoms of CNV may include blurry or distorted vision, dark spots in the central vision, difficulty reading, and reduced color perception. If left untreated, CNV can result in permanent vision loss.
Various treatments are available for CNV, including anti-vascular endothelial growth factor (anti-VEGF) injections, photodynamic therapy, and laser treatment. These interventions aim to suppress the growth of abnormal blood vessels and reduce leakage, thus preserving or improving vision.
Regular eye examinations are crucial for early detection and management of CNV, especially in individuals with risk factors such as age, a family history of AMD, or comorbid conditions.
The word "choroid" comes from the Greek word "chorioeidḗs", which means "like the chorion" and refers to the choroid layer of the eye.
"Neovascularization" is a combination of two words: "neo", derived from the Greek word "neos" meaning "new", and "vascularization", a derivative of the Latin word "vasculum", meaning "a small vessel".
Therefore, "choroid neovascularization" is a medical term that refers to the formation of new blood vessels in the choroid layer of the eye.