Hydrophthalmos is a medical term that refers to a condition where there is an excessive amount of fluid in the eyes. The spelling of this word in IPA phonetic transcription is [ˌhaɪdrofˈθælməs], which can be broken down into three parts. The first part is "hydro", which means water. The second part is "opthalmos", which means eye. The final part of the word is "os", which is a suffix denoting a condition. The correct spelling of this word is essential to ensure effective communication between medical professionals.
Hydrophthalmos is a medical condition characterized by abnormal enlargement and increased fluid within the eyeball that leads to enlargement of the eye. Also referred to as buphthalmos or infantile glaucoma, hydrophthalmos typically occurs during infancy or early childhood, resulting in progressive damage to the optic nerve and impaired vision if left untreated.
The condition is often caused by a congenital defect in the eye's drainage system, known as the trabecular meshwork, which impedes the proper outflow of aqueous humor. As a consequence, the fluid builds up, exerting pressure on the eye and contributing to its abnormal growth. This abnormal pressure can lead to stretching and thinning of the cornea, increased intraocular pressure, and other structural abnormalities within the eye.
Symptoms of hydrophthalmos may include enlarged corneas, excessive tearing, sensitivity to light, cloudiness or haziness of the cornea, and decreased visual acuity. Diagnosis is usually made through a comprehensive eye examination, including measurements of intraocular pressure and evaluation of the optic nerve and other eye structures.
Treatment for hydrophthalmos typically involves surgical intervention aimed at improving drainage and reducing intraocular pressure. This may include procedures such as trabeculotomy, trabeculectomy, or the implantation of a drainage device. Early detection and intervention are crucial to prevent irreversible damage to the optic nerve and preserve visual function. Long-term monitoring and management may be necessary to optimize visual outcomes and prevent complications associated with hydrophthalmos.
The word "hydrophthalmos" is a medical term and its etymology can be traced back to its Greek roots. It is formed from two Greek words: "hydro" meaning water and "ophthalmos" meaning eye.
In medical terminology, "hydrophthalmos" refers to a condition characterized by an abnormally enlarged eye due to increased intraocular pressure or the accumulation of fluid within the eye. This term was coined based on the observation of the presence of excess fluid in the eye, resembling water, which leads to the enlargement.