Scleral diseases are conditions that affect the tough outer layer of the eye, known as the sclera. The spelling of "scleral" is pronounced /ˈsklɪrəl/ using the International Phonetic Alphabet (IPA). The "sc" in "scleral" is pronounced as /sk/ like in "sky". The "l" at the end is silent. The pronunciation of "scleral" may vary depending on the accent, location or background of the speaker, but the IPA provides a standardized way to transcribe the pronunciation of words. Regular eye exams can help detect scleral diseases early on and prevent further complications.
Scleral diseases refer to a group of conditions that affect the sclera, which is the white outer layer of the eyeball. The sclera is a tough, fibrous tissue responsible for maintaining the shape and integrity of the eye. These diseases may involve inflammation, thinning, or thickening of the sclera, leading to various symptoms and potential vision problems.
One example of a scleral disease is scleritis, which is the inflammation of the sclera characterized by redness, pain, and sensitivity to light. Scleritis can be associated with autoimmune disorders such as rheumatoid arthritis or systemic lupus erythematosus.
Another scleral disease is scleromalacia, a condition marked by thinning and softening of the sclera. This rare condition can result in vision impairment and may be associated with autoimmune diseases or trauma to the eye.
Scleral diseases can also include conditions like scleral ectasia, which is the abnormal thinning and bulging of the sclera, and scleromalacia perforans, a severe form of scleromalacia characterized by the development of holes in the sclera.
Treatment for scleral diseases typically involves addressing the underlying cause, such as managing inflammation in cases of scleritis. Medications, eye drops, or surgical interventions may be recommended depending on the specific condition and severity. Regular eye exams and prompt medical attention are crucial in managing scleral diseases to prevent potential complications and preserve vision.
The word "scleral" comes from the Latin term "sclera", which means "hard covering". It derives from the Greek word "sklēros", which means "hard". The term "scleral diseases" refers to a group of conditions that affect the sclera, which is the tough, white outer layer of the eye.