The spelling of "scleral staphyloma" can be tricky to decipher without knowledge of medical terminology. The word begins with the "sk" sound, represented by the phonetic transcription /sk/. The "L" following the "s" is pronounced with the same sound as in "black," and the second "a" is pronounced as a long "a," as in "hay." The word ends with the syllable "-ma," which is pronounced with a short "a" sound, represented by /mə/. Overall, the word is pronounced as /ˈsklerəl stəˈfaɪləmə/.
Scleral staphyloma refers to a medical condition characterized by an abnormal bulging or protrusion of the sclera, which is the tough outermost layer of the eyeball. It is a rare condition that is believed to be primarily caused by thinning or weakening of the scleral tissue. This weakening can occur due to various factors such as trauma, infection, inflammation, or underlying connective tissue disorders.
The protrusion associated with scleral staphyloma typically leads to a localized, rounded or irregularly shaped bulge in the sclera. This protrusion can vary in size and may involve one or both eyes. The affected area can be thin and translucent, allowing the underlying structures of the eye, such as the choroid or the retina, to be visible.
Individuals with scleral staphyloma may present with symptoms such as blurred vision, reduced visual acuity, or discomfort. The severity of these symptoms can depend on the size and location of the staphyloma. Diagnosis of this condition typically involves a comprehensive eye examination, including the use of specialized imaging techniques such as ultrasound or optical coherence tomography.
Treatment options for scleral staphyloma primarily aim to address any underlying causes, manage associated symptoms, and prevent complications. Depending on the individual case, treatment may involve medications to control inflammation, surgical interventions to reinforce or repair the weakened scleral area, or the use of customized contact lenses to improve visual function. Regular monitoring by an ophthalmologist is essential to assess the progression of the staphyloma and implement appropriate management strategies.
Equatorial s. or posterior s.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
The word "scleral staphyloma" is derived from two components: "scleral" and "staphyloma".
1. Scleral: The term "scleral" refers to the sclera, which is the tough, white outer layer of the eyeball. The sclera provides structural support and protection to the eye.
This term comes from the Late Latin word "sclera" or "sclerum", meaning "hard" or "firm". In turn, this Latin word originates from the Ancient Greek word "sklēros" meaning "hard".
2. Staphyloma: The term "staphyloma" refers to an abnormal bulging or protrusion of the sclera. This condition is typically caused by weakened or thinning of the sclera, leading to its abnormal stretching and bulging.