JUVENILE CATARACT Meaning and
Definition
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Juvenile cataract refers to a type of cataract that occurs in children or young individuals under the age of 18. A cataract is a condition characterized by the clouding or opacity of the eye's lens, which can impede normal vision. While cataracts are often associated with aging, as the lens becomes less transparent over time, juvenile cataracts occur much earlier in life.
Juvenile cataracts can be caused by a variety of factors, including genetic or hereditary factors, metabolic disorders, trauma to the eye, infections, or certain medication use during pregnancy. These factors can cause abnormal development of the lens, resulting in a cloudy appearance. The opacity of the lens obstructs the passage of light, preventing it from reaching the retina properly and leading to blurred or impaired vision.
Symptoms of juvenile cataracts may include decreased visual acuity, difficulty distinguishing colors or objects, increased sensitivity to light, and the presence of a white or cloudy spot in the center of the pupil. Timely diagnosis and treatment are crucial for managing juvenile cataracts, as they can significantly impact a child's visual development and overall quality of life.
Treatment options for juvenile cataracts primarily involve surgical removal of the cloudy lens and replacing it with an artificial lens implant. This procedure is called pediatric cataract surgery. Additional interventions may be required, such as eyeglasses, contact lenses, or vision therapy to aid in the restoration of clear vision. Regular follow-up appointments with an eye care specialist are essential to monitor the child's progress and address any post-surgical complications or visual rehabilitation needs.
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A soft c. occuring in a child or young adult, especially one suffering from rickets.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
Common Misspellings for JUVENILE CATARACT
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Etymology of JUVENILE CATARACT
The word "juvenile" derives from the Latin word "juvenilis", meaning "youthful" or "young". It is used to describe something that relates to or is characteristic of young individuals.
The word "cataract" originated from the Latin word "cataracta", which originally referred to a "waterfall". In medical terminology, "cataract" refers to the clouding of the eye's lens that affects vision.
Therefore, the term "juvenile cataract" describes a condition in which there is the clouding of the eye's lens specifically in young individuals.
