Furrow keratitis is a medical condition that affects the cornea of the eye. The term "furrow" refers to the small lines or wrinkles that can form on the cornea as a result of various underlying conditions. "Keratitis" is a broader term that refers to any inflammation of the cornea. The IPA phonetic transcription for "furrow keratitis" would be /ˈfʌr.oʊ kɛr.əˈtaɪ.tɪs/. Proper spelling is important in medical terms to ensure accurate communication among healthcare professionals and to avoid confusion and potential harm to patients.
Furrow keratitis refers to a specific type of inflammation or irritation that affects the cornea, which is the transparent, dome-shaped window at the front of the eye. This condition is characterized by the presence of small, distinct furrows or grooves on the surface of the cornea.
The term "keratitis" refers to the inflammation of the cornea, which can occur due to various factors such as infections, allergies, or environmental irritants. In the case of furrow keratitis, the exact cause may vary, but it is commonly associated with the chronic use of contact lenses, specifically those made of rigid gas-permeable materials. The constant friction and mechanical stress of these lenses against the cornea can lead to the formation of furrows, resulting in inflammation and discomfort.
Symptoms of furrow keratitis may include redness, blurred vision, eye pain or discomfort, sensitivity to light, excessive tearing, and a foreign body sensation. If left untreated, it can potentially lead to corneal ulcers or other complications that could affect vision.
Treatment of furrow keratitis typically involves discontinuing the use of contact lenses and allowing the cornea to heal. Lubricating eye drops or ointments may be recommended to relieve dryness and discomfort. In more severe cases, the use of steroid eye drops or other anti-inflammatory medications might be necessary to control the inflammation. Regular follow-up appointments with an eye care professional are often needed to monitor the condition and ensure proper healing.
Elongated branching ulcers of the cornea, keratitis dendritica.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
The etymology of the term "Furrow Keratitis" can be broken down as follows:
1. Furrow: The word "furrow" originated from the Middle English word "forwe", which ultimately came from the Old English word "furh" meaning "furrow", "trench", or "track". The term derived from the Proto-Germanic word "furhwō" and is related to the Old High German word "furh" and Old Norse word "for".
2. Keratitis: The term "keratitis" is composed of two roots. The first part, "kerat", is derived from the Greek word "keras" meaning "horn" or "cornea". The second part, "-itis", is a suffix derived from Greek which denotes inflammation. Hence, "keratitis" refers to the inflammation of the cornea.