RETINITIS PIGMENTOSA Meaning and
Definition
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Retinitis pigmentosa is a genetic disorder that affects the retina, the light-sensitive tissue located at the back of the eye. This condition is characterized by the gradual degeneration and loss of the photoreceptor cells in the retina, leading to progressive vision loss.
Typically, individuals with retinitis pigmentosa experience initial symptoms such as difficulty seeing in dim light or in the dark, decreased peripheral vision, and night blindness. As the disease progresses, central vision may also be affected, resulting in impaired visual acuity and reduced color perception. The gradual deterioration of the retina's cells is often accompanied by the accumulation of dark pigmented clumps, hence the name "retinitis pigmentosa."
Retinitis pigmentosa is mainly an inherited condition, with several genetic mutations identified as potential causative factors. It is usually a bilateral disorder, meaning it affects both eyes, and commonly begins in childhood or adolescence. The rate and progression of vision loss can vary widely among individuals, ranging from mild to severe impairment.
Although there is currently no cure for retinitis pigmentosa, various treatment options aim to slow down its progression and manage its symptoms. These may include visual aids, such as glasses and magnifiers, as well as orientation and mobility training. Additionally, advancements in gene therapy and retinal implants hold promise for potential future interventions.
In summary, retinitis pigmentosa is a hereditary eye condition characterized by progressive degeneration of the retina, leading to visual impairment and various associated symptoms.
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A chronic progressive inflammation of the retina with atrophy and pigmentary infiltration of the inner layers, tigroid retina.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
Common Misspellings for RETINITIS PIGMENTOSA
- eetinitis pigmentosa
- detinitis pigmentosa
- fetinitis pigmentosa
- tetinitis pigmentosa
- 5etinitis pigmentosa
- 4etinitis pigmentosa
- rwtinitis pigmentosa
- rstinitis pigmentosa
- rdtinitis pigmentosa
- rrtinitis pigmentosa
- r4tinitis pigmentosa
- r3tinitis pigmentosa
- rerinitis pigmentosa
- refinitis pigmentosa
- reginitis pigmentosa
- reyinitis pigmentosa
- re6initis pigmentosa
- re5initis pigmentosa
- retunitis pigmentosa
- retjnitis pigmentosa
Etymology of RETINITIS PIGMENTOSA
The word "retinitis pigmentosa" has its etymology rooted in the Latin language.
1. "Retinitis" originates from the Latin word "retina", which means "a net" or "net-like structure". In the context of the human eye, the retina refers to the light-sensitive layer at the back of the eyeball.
2. "Pigmentosa" is derived from the Latin word "pigmentum", meaning "paint" or "coloring matter". It is used to describe a condition that involves the deposition or accumulation of pigment or coloration.
Therefore, the term "retinitis pigmentosa" is derived from Latin to describe an eye disease characterized by the progressive degeneration of the retinal cells, resulting in the deposition of pigmented material.
