CPEO (chronic progressive external ophthalmoplegia) is a rare mitochondrial disease characterized by the progressive weakening of the eye muscles. The spelling of CPEO is phonetically transcribed as /krɒnɪk prəʊˈɡrɛsɪv ɛksˈtɜːnəl ˌɒfθælˈmɒplɪdʒə/. The phonemes in this word represent how the word is pronounced. The word starts with a voiced velar fricative, followed by a short vowel. Then, there is a voiceless bilabial plosive and a schwa sound. The last syllable is made of a voiceless dental fricative and an affricate. Phonetic transcription ensures clarity and accuracy while pronouncing the word.
CPEO stands for Chronic Progressive External Ophthalmoplegia. It is a rare genetic disorder characterized by the progressive weakness and paralysis of the muscles that control eye movement, leading to a limited range of eye motion and drooping eyelids or ptosis. This condition primarily affects the muscles responsible for moving the eyes side to side (horizontal gaze) and up and down (vertical gaze).
CPEO is typically caused by mutations in the DNA of mitochondria, the energy-producing structures within cells. These mutations disrupt the normal functioning of mitochondria in muscle cells, including those responsible for eye movement. The exact mechanisms underlying the development and progression of CPEO are not fully understood. However, it is believed that the impaired energy production in muscle cells contributes to the muscle weakness and dysfunction experienced by individuals with CPEO.
Symptoms of CPEO usually develop gradually over time and can vary in severity between individuals. Besides eye movement abnormalities, affected individuals may experience general muscle weakness, drooping of the upper eyelids, double vision, and decreased visual acuity. Some individuals may exhibit additional signs and symptoms such as hearing loss, heart rhythm abnormalities, or neurological issues.
CPEO is typically a lifelong condition with no cure available. Treatment options mainly focus on managing the symptoms and providing supportive care. This may involve the use of corrective lenses, prisms, or eye patches to address visual disturbances. Physical therapy or eye muscle surgery may be considered in severe cases to improve eye movement. Genetic counseling may also be beneficial for affected individuals and their families to understand the inheritance patterns and risks associated with CPEO.