Proliferating retinitis, a disease that affects the retina, is spelled using the International Phonetic Alphabet (IPA) transcription /pro-lif-er-ey-ting/ /reh-ti-nahy-tis/. The first part of the word, "proliferating", is pronounced with stress on the second syllable and has a long "i" sound. The second part, "retinitis", also has stress on the second syllable and ends with an "is" sound. This disease causes the retina to become inflamed and can result in vision loss if left untreated.
Proliferating retinitis is a medical condition characterized by the rapid and uncontrolled growth or multiplication of cells within the retina, the light-sensitive tissue at the back of the eye. It is specifically used to describe the excessive proliferation of cells in the retina, leading to inflammation, damage, and potential loss of function.
This condition is often associated with viral infections, particularly cytomegalovirus (CMV) infection, which commonly affects individuals with weakened immune systems, such as those with HIV/AIDS, organ transplant recipients, or individuals receiving immunosuppressive therapies. Proliferating retinitis caused by CMV typically presents with symptoms such as blurred vision, floaters, loss of peripheral vision, or even complete vision loss if left untreated.
Due to its rapid and progressive nature, early diagnosis and treatment are crucial to prevent permanent vision loss. Antiviral medications are commonly prescribed to combat the viral infection and prevent further proliferation of infected cells. Additionally, extra precautionary measures may be necessary to manage the underlying immune condition and prevent recurrences.
Regular eye examinations and prompt medical attention are essential for individuals at high risk for proliferating retinitis, as early intervention can significantly improve the prognosis and minimize the long-term impact on vision. In severe cases, surgical interventions such as retinal laser therapy or vitrectomy may be considered to address extensive retinal damage and restore visual function.
A form in which connective-tissue new formations project into the vitreous.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
The term "proliferating retinitis" is a medical phrase that combines two different words: "proliferating" and "retinitis".
1. "Proliferating" is derived from the verb "proliferate", which comes from the Latin word "proliferare". It is a combination of "pro" (meaning forward) and "liferare" (meaning to bear or produce). The term "proliferate" refers to the rapid or increasing growth or multiplication of cells or organisms.
2. "Retinitis" is a medical term derived from the Latin word "retina", which refers to the innermost layer of the eye responsible for vision. "Retinitis" specifically indicates an inflammation or swelling of the retina, often caused by an infection.
Therefore, "proliferating retinitis" describes an accelerating or multiplying inflammation or infection of the retina.