Hydrophobic coloboms is a medical term used to describe a type of eye abnormality. The word "hydrophobic" is spelled as [haɪdɹəˈfoʊbɪk], where the stress is on the second syllable. The first syllable is pronounced as "high", while the second syllable is pronounced as "druh". The term "colobom" represents a gap or hole in any part of the eye, such as the iris or retina. The word is spelled as [kəˈloʊbəm] where the stress is on the first syllable. It is important to spell medical terms correctly, as they are used for professional communication among healthcare professionals.
Hydrophobic coloboms refer to a specific type of eye anomaly characterized by the presence of a coloboma, coupled with hydrophobic tendencies. A coloboma is a congenital defect that occurs during embryonic development, resulting in incomplete closure of the eye's structures, such as the optic fissure. This incomplete closure leads to a cleft-like gap in one or more parts of the eye, such as the iris, retina, choroid, or optic disc.
In the case of hydrophobic coloboms, an unusual characteristic is observed where the affected areas display an aversion or resistance to water. Hydrophobicity refers to the property of repelling or being non-reactive towards water, and it manifests in various forms within the context of colobomas. For example, the hydrophobic coloboma's region may exhibit a visible repulsion towards entering water, causing it to repel or resist water droplets upon contact.
The underlying mechanisms leading to hydrophobic coloboms are still not fully understood, and additional research is needed to elucidate the precise causes and effects. However, it is believed that genetic factors and abnormal developmental processes during early embryonic stages play significant roles. Hydrophobic coloboms can be detected through comprehensive eye examinations, including visual acuity tests and imaging techniques like optical coherence tomography (OCT) or ultrasonography.
Treatment for hydrophobic coloboms typically involves managing any visual impairments or complications resulting from the coloboma, such as asymmetric or decreased visual acuity. This may include the use of corrective lenses, contact lenses, or surgical interventions depending on the severity and location of the coloboma. Regular follow-up appointments with ophthalmologists are essential to monitor the condition
A congenital cleft of the iris, often associated with c. of the chorioid, or the defect resulting from iridectomy.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
The term "hydrophobic coloboms" does not have a specific etymology as it is a combination of medical terms.
The word "hydrophobic" is derived from the Greek roots "hydro" meaning water and "phobos" meaning fear, indicating a fear or aversion to water. In medical terminology, it refers to a condition where a substance repels or resists water.
The word "coloboma", on the other hand, originates from the Greek word "koloboma" meaning a defect or gap. It is used to describe a congenital malformation or hole in a specific part of the body, often referring to the eye or the iris.
When combined, "hydrophobic coloboms" likely describes a condition where there is a defect or gap in a particular part of the body or organ that exhibits a repulsion to water.