Phacocele, pronounced /fækoʊsiːl/, is a medical term referring to a bulging or swelling in the eye's anterior chamber caused by an accumulation of fluid. The spelling of the word can be broken down into two parts: "phaco," meaning lens, and "cele," meaning swelling or bulging. The "phaco" portion is derived from the Greek word "phakos," which also means lens. The spelling of "cele" is a common suffix used in medical terminology to describe bulging or swelling. Together, the word accurately depicts the bulging of the lens in the eye due to the accumulation of fluid.
A phacocele is a medical condition characterized by the enlargement or dilation of the phacocele, which is a small membranous sac-like structure located on the surface of the eye. The phacocele is a remnant or vestige of the third eyelid commonly found in some animals, particularly birds and reptiles. In humans, the phacocele may occur congenitally or as a result of certain underlying health conditions.
Phacoceles usually develop on the inner corner of the eye, in the region where the eyelids meet the bridge of the nose. They typically present as small, smooth, and painless sacs filled with clear or yellowish fluid. However, they can also become infected, leading to redness, swelling, and discomfort.
While most phacoceles are harmless and only require regular observation, larger or symptomatic ones may require medical intervention. Treatment options usually involve surgical excision or drainage of the phacocele. In some instances, the fluid within the phacocele may be examined for further evaluation or to rule out any underlying pathology.
In summary, a phacocele refers to the enlargement or dilation of the phacocele, a remnant structure found on the surface of the eye. It is typically a benign condition, but larger or symptomatic phacoceles may require medical intervention such as surgical removal or drainage.
Dislocation of the crystalline lens of the eye.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
The word "phacocele" originated from the combination of two Greek roots: "phakos" and "kele".
- "Phakos" (φάκος) refers to a lentil or a lens. It is derived from "phakein" (φακεῖν), which means "to grow" or "to increase".
- "Kele" (κήλη) translates to a tumor or hernia in Greek.
Therefore, "phacocele" can be understood etymologically as a herniation or swelling related to the lens of the eye.