INFANTILE CATARACT Meaning and
Definition
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Infantile cataract is a medical term used to describe a condition characterized by the presence of a cloudy or opaque lens in one or both eyes of an infant. Cataracts refer to the clouding or loss of transparency of the normally clear lens, which results in impaired vision or blindness if left untreated.
Infantile cataracts typically occur in newborns or infants under one year of age. They can either be congenital, meaning present at birth, or they can develop shortly after birth. The causes of infantile cataracts can vary, including genetic factors, maternal infections during pregnancy, metabolic disorders, trauma, or certain medications.
Symptoms of infantile cataract may include an abnormal whitish or grayish area over the lens, excessive tearing, poor visual responsiveness, nystagmus (involuntary eye movements), or the inability to focus on objects or follow them with the eyes. It is important to seek prompt medical attention if any of these signs are present.
Treatment for infantile cataract often involves surgical intervention to remove the clouded lens and replace it with an artificial lens or contact lens to restore vision. Following surgery, the infant may require vision therapy or eyeglasses to optimize visual development.
Regular follow-up visits with an ophthalmologist are necessary to monitor the progress of vision and ensure the healthy development of the affected eye(s). With timely intervention, most infants with cataracts can achieve good visual outcomes and lead a normal life.
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Juvenile c. affecting a very young child.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
Common Misspellings for INFANTILE CATARACT
- unfantile cataract
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- incantile cataract
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- infwntile cataract
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Etymology of INFANTILE CATARACT
The word "infantile" comes from the Latin word "infans", which means "young child". It is derived from "in" (not) and "fari" (to speak) since infants cannot speak.
The word "cataract" has a different etymology. It comes from the Latin word "cataracta", which means "waterfall" or "rushing down". This is derived from the Greek word "kataraktēs", which also means "waterfall". In the context of an eye condition, a "cataract" refers to the clouding or opacity that occurs in the lens of the eye, causing decreased vision. The term was likely used metaphorically, comparing the clouded lens to the opaque appearance of a waterfall.
Thus, "infantile cataract" refers to the condition of a clouded lens occurring in young children or infants.
