Panophthalmia is a medical term that refers to a condition characterized by inflammation occurring throughout the entire eye, affecting all its structures. It is derived from the Greek words "pan" meaning "all" or "entire," and "ophthalmos" meaning "eye." This condition is relatively rare but can have severe consequences on a person's vision and overall eye health.
The inflammation associated with panophthalmia typically involves the conjunctiva, cornea, sclera, iris, and retina, along with the tissues that support and surround the eye. It can be caused by various underlying factors, such as trauma, infections (including bacterial, viral, or fungal), autoimmune disorders, or even certain systemic diseases.
Symptoms of panophthalmia may include severe eye pain, redness, swelling, blurred vision, increased sensitivity to light (photophobia), excessive tearing or discharge from the eye, and a feeling of pressure inside the eye. If left untreated, panophthalmia can lead to complications like vision loss, damage to the optic nerve, corneal scarring, or even permanent blindness.
Treatment for panophthalmia focuses on addressing the underlying cause of the inflammation and managing the symptoms. This may involve the use of systemic or topical medications, antibiotics or antivirals to combat infections, corticosteroids to reduce inflammation, lubricating eye drops to alleviate dryness, and, in severe cases, surgical interventions. Timely diagnosis and appropriate treatment are crucial for minimizing the potential long-term effects of panophthalmia and preserving vision.
