The term "paralytic miosis" refers to the constriction of the pupil as a result of paralysis. The spelling of this term can be explained using the International Phonetic Alphabet (IPA). The first part, "paralytic", is pronounced as /pəˈrælətɪk/, with emphasis on the second syllable. The second part, "miosis", is pronounced as /maɪˈoʊsɪs/, with emphasis on the first syllable. The letter "y" in "miosis" is pronounced like a long "i". This term is commonly used in the medical field to describe a specific condition.
Paralytic miosis refers to the abnormally constricted or narrowed size of the pupil in response to the dysfunction or paralysis of the muscles that control the dilation of the pupil. The term "miosis" itself refers to the constriction of the pupil, which is a normal response to bright light or near focus. However, in the case of paralytic miosis, the constriction is excessive or occurs persistently due to the loss of control over the muscles that govern the dilation process.
Paralytic miosis can be caused by several conditions or factors that lead to the impairment of the muscles involved in pupil dilation. For instance, it can occur as a result of damage or disruption to the nerves that transmit signals to these muscles, such as in cases of nerve injury or dysfunction. Additionally, certain medications, such as opioids or cholinergic drugs, can also induce paralytic miosis as a side effect.
The symptoms of paralytic miosis typically include the noticeable constriction of the pupil, giving it a smaller size than usual. This can lead to decreased vision in dimly lit conditions and increased sensitivity to bright light. However, the underlying cause of paralytic miosis must be determined and addressed, as it may be indicative of an underlying medical condition or require medical intervention. Therefore, a thorough assessment and diagnosis by a healthcare professional are crucial for appropriate management.
Contraction of the pupil due to paralysis of the radiating muscular fibers.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
The term "paralytic miosis" has a medical etymology that can be broken down as follows:
1. Paralytic: The word "paralytic" is derived from the Greek word "paralusis" (παράλυσις), which means "paralysis". It is composed of two elements: "para" meaning "beside" or "alongside", and "lysis" meaning "loosening" or "dissolution". In medicine, "paralytic" refers to any condition characterized by paralysis or weakness.
2. Miosis: The word "miosis" also has Greek origins, derived from "meioun" (μειοῦν), meaning "to reduce" or "to make smaller". In medicine, miosis refers specifically to abnormal constriction or narrowing of the pupil of the eye.