Keratitis bullosa is a medical term that refers to a condition where there is a formation of fluid-filled blisters or bullae in the cornea of the eye. The spelling of this term is based on its pronunciation, which can be explained using the International Phonetic Alphabet (IPA). The IPA transcription of keratitis bullosa is /kɛrətaɪtɪs bʊˈloʊsə/. The initial sound, /k/, is followed by a long /ɛ/ and a schwa /ə/. The stress is on the second syllable, indicated by the acute accent. The second word, bullosa, is pronounced with a short /ʊ/ followed by an open-o /oʊ/.
Keratitis bullosa is a medical term used to describe a specific type of corneal condition characterized by the presence of fluid-filled blisters or vesicles on the surface of the cornea, the transparent front part of the eye. It is a form of corneal edema, which refers to excessive fluid accumulation in the cornea.
The condition typically occurs due to damage or disruption of the corneal epithelium, the outermost layer of the cornea. This damage can result from various causes, including trauma, infections (such as herpes simplex virus or herpes zoster virus), underlying autoimmune disorders, or as a response to certain medications or contact lens wear.
Individuals with keratitis bullosa may experience symptoms such as eye pain, blurred vision, redness, and sensitivity to light. The fluid-filled blisters may also rupture, leading to the formation of erosions or ulcers on the corneal surface.
Diagnosis of keratitis bullosa involves a thorough eye examination conducted by an ophthalmologist, which may include visual acuity tests and imaging techniques to assess the cornea's condition. Treatment typically aims at addressing the underlying cause, such as antiviral or antibiotic medications for infections, or discontinuation of offending medications. Additionally, management may involve the use of lubricating eye drops, bandage contact lenses, or in severe cases, surgical intervention like corneal transplantation.
Overall, keratitis bullosa is a specific term used to denote the presence of fluid-filled blisters on the cornea, often caused by corneal damage or certain underlying conditions. Adequate diagnosis and management are essential to preserve visual function and alleviate symptoms.
Inflammation of the cornea with the formation of bullae.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
The term "keratitis" originates from the Greek word "keratos", which means "horn" or "cornea", and the suffix "-itis", meaning inflammation. Thus, keratitis refers to the inflammation of the cornea.
On the other hand, "bullosa" is derived from the Latin word "bulla", which means "bubble" or "blister". Therefore, when combined with "keratitis", "keratitis bullosa" refers to a condition that involves both inflammation and the formation of blisters or bullae on the cornea.