Scleritis (/sklɛˈraɪtɪs/) is a medical term used to describe inflammation of the sclera, the white outer layer of the eye. The word is spelled with the letter "s" at the beginning, followed by "cl" and "er", which are pronounced together as an "kl" sound. The "i" and "t" are pronounced as separate syllables. The final "is" is pronounced with a short "i" sound, followed by a "z" sound. This spelling and pronunciation are important for medical professionals to properly diagnose and treat the condition.
Scleritis is a medical condition characterized by inflammation of the sclera, which is the tough, white outer coating of the eye. It is a serious and rare condition that can cause significant pain and discomfort in the affected eye. Scleritis can occur in one or both eyes and can affect people of any age, although it is more commonly found in adults.
The inflammation in scleritis is typically caused by an autoimmune response; however, it can also occur as a result of infection, trauma, or other underlying medical conditions. The condition may present with symptoms such as severe eye pain, redness, sensitivity to light, blurred vision, and tearing. In some cases, patients may experience systemic symptoms such as joint pain, fatigue, or fever.
Scleritis is a distinct condition from conjunctivitis or episcleritis. It is usually diagnosed through a comprehensive eye examination, which may include blood tests or imaging studies. Treatment for scleritis focuses on reducing inflammation and managing pain. This may involve the use of corticosteroids or other medications that suppress the immune system. In severe cases, surgical intervention may be necessary to alleviate pressure on the eye or repair any damage caused by the inflammation.
Without proper and timely treatment, scleritis can lead to serious complications, including vision loss and damage to the structures of the eye. Therefore, early diagnosis and intervention are crucial in managing this condition effectively and minimizing potential long-term consequences.
The word "scleritis" is derived from the combination of two Greek roots: "sclero" and "itis".
1. "Sclero" comes from the Greek word "skleros", meaning hard or tough. This root is often used in medical terms to refer to something that has become hardened or thickened, such as abnormal tissue growth or scarring.
2. "Itis" is derived from the Greek word "itis", which translates to inflammation. It is commonly added to medical terms to indicate an inflammation of a particular part of the body.
Therefore, "scleritis" refers to the inflammation of the sclera, which is the white outer layer of the eyeball.