Descemetocele is a medical term used to describe a serious eye condition where the cornea bulges out and forms a sac-like structure due to injury or infection. The word descemetocele is pronounced as "des-uh-mi-toh-seel" and is spelled as /dɪˌsɛmətoʊˈsiːl/. The prefix "des-" means down or away, whereas "ceme" refers to the cornea and "-tocele" means a bulging sac-like structure. Thus, the word descemetocele clearly describes the formation of a sac-like bulge in the cornea, which is a highly sensitive part of the eye.
A descemetocele is a medical term that refers to a specific type of corneal disorder or injury. It is characterized by a rupture or perforation of the cornea, which allows the innermost layer of the cornea, known as Descemet's membrane, to protrude through the opening. Descemetocele typically occurs as a result of severe trauma or other corneal conditions.
Descemet's membrane is a thin layer of tissue that lies between the corneal endothelium and the stroma. When the cornea is compromised, such as through a deep ulcer, severe corneal abrasion, or penetrating injury, Descemet's membrane can become exposed and may bulge outwards, leading to the formation of a descemetocele.
A descemetocele is considered a serious eye condition as it poses a significant risk of corneal perforation if left untreated. If the condition progresses, the protruded Descemet's membrane may become thin and necrotic, increasing the chances of a full-thickness perforation, which could potentially lead to loss of vision.
Treatment for a descemetocele typically involves urgent medical intervention, often requiring surgical procedures like corneal grafting or other techniques aimed at sealing the perforation and providing support and stability to the compromised cornea. Prompt management is crucial in order to minimize the risk of infection, promote healing, and prevent further damage to the cornea. Following appropriate treatment, it is important for the patient to be closely monitored to ensure proper recovery and to address any potential complications that may arise.
Hernia or protrusion of Descemet's membrane.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
The word "descemetocele" is derived from Latin and Greek roots.
The term "descemet" is named after the French physician Jean Descemet (1732-1810), who was known for his contributions to ophthalmology. Descemet's membrane, also called the posterior limiting lamina, is a thin layer of tissue in the cornea of the eye.
The word "cele" comes from the Greek word "koilos", meaning "cavity" or "hollow". It is a suffix commonly used in medical terminology to denote a swelling or a sac-like structure.
Therefore, "descemetocele" combines these two elements. It refers to a medical condition where there is a rupture or perforation of Descemet's membrane in the cornea, leading to a cavity or hollow space formation.