PAPILLEDEMA Meaning and
Definition
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Papilledema is a medical condition characterized by the swelling of the optic disc, also known as the optic nerve head, at the back of the eye. The optic disc connects the eye to the brain, and it is responsible for transmitting visual information to the brain for processing.
The swelling occurs due to the increased pressure within the skull, resulting in the accumulation of fluid around the optic nerve. This increased pressure can be caused by various factors, such as brain tumors, bleeding in the brain, inflammation, or increased cerebrospinal fluid pressure, commonly seen in conditions like hydrocephalus.
Papilledema is typically bilateral, affecting both eyes, and can cause various symptoms. These symptoms might include vision problems, such as blurred or double vision, headaches (often worse in the morning), nausea, vomiting, and changes in the field of vision.
Doctors often diagnose papilledema through a comprehensive eye examination, specifically evaluating the appearance of the optic disc and conducting additional tests to determine the underlying cause. Prompt diagnosis and treatment are crucial to prevent permanent damage to the optic nerve and preserve vision.
The treatment of papilledema aims to address the underlying cause, reducing the pressure within the skull and decreasing the swelling of the optic disc. This may involve medications, surgical interventions, or lifestyle changes, such as weight loss or dietary modifications to decrease cerebrospinal fluid production. Regular monitoring and follow-up examinations are essential to assess the progress and manage any potential complications associated with papilledema.
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A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
Common Misspellings for PAPILLEDEMA
- oapilledema
- lapilledema
- -apilledema
- 0apilledema
- pzpilledema
- pspilledema
- pwpilledema
- pqpilledema
- paoilledema
- palilledema
- pa-illedema
- pa0illedema
- papulledema
- papjlledema
- papklledema
- papolledema
- pap9lledema
- pap8lledema
- papikledema
- papilledewma
Etymology of PAPILLEDEMA
The word "papilledema" is derived from Latin and Greek roots.
The Latin word "papilla" refers to a small nipple or pimple, while "edema" comes from the Greek word "oidēma", which means swelling or a swelling condition.
Therefore, "papilledema" combines these roots to refer to a medical condition characterized by swelling of the optic nerve head, which resembles a small swelling or pimple-like appearance.
Similar spelling word for PAPILLEDEMA
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