Sympathetic iritis is a condition that can occur in the eye after an injury or surgery. The word "sympathetic" is spelled as /sɪmˈpæθətɪk/, with the stress on the second syllable. The "y" in the first syllable is pronounced like the "i" in "sit," while the second syllable rhymes with "pathetic." "Iritis," on the other hand, is spelled as /aɪˈraɪtɪs/, with the stress on the first syllable. The word's final syllable rhymes with "right." Together, the correct pronunciation of "sympathetic iritis" is /sɪmˈpæθətɪk aɪˈraɪtɪs/.
Sympathetic iritis, also known as sympathetic ophthalmia, is a rare but potentially serious condition that affects the eyes. It refers to an autoimmune inflammation of the uveal tract in one eye, which occurs as a result of trauma or surgery in the other eye. The condition gets its name from the sympathetic response of one eye to the injury and subsequent inflammation in the other eye.
The uveal tract includes the iris, choroid, and ciliary body, which are responsible for regulating the size of the pupil and allowing light to enter the eye. In cases of sympathetic iritis, the immune system mistakenly identifies the injured eye as a threat and launches an immune response against it. This response can then spread to the healthy eye, leading to inflammation and potential damage to the uveal tract.
The symptoms of sympathetic iritis may include eye pain, redness, sensitivity to light (photophobia), blurred vision, and decreased visual acuity. If left untreated, it can progress and cause permanent vision loss or even blindness.
The treatment for sympathetic iritis typically involves systemic immunosuppressive medication, such as corticosteroids, to reduce the inflammation and prevent further damage to the affected eyes. In some cases, surgery may be required to remove any sources of infection or damaged tissue.
Given the potential severity of sympathetic iritis, it is crucial to seek prompt medical attention if any symptoms are present, especially in cases where there has been recent eye trauma or surgery.
I. consecutive to a similar condition in the other eye.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
The term "sympathetic iritis" is composed of two main components:
1. Sympathetic: The adjective "sympathetic" comes from the Greek word "sympatheia" meaning "feeling with" or "having compassion for". In this context, the term refers to a condition in which the healthy eye becomes inflamed or affected as a sympathetic response to inflammation in the other eye.
2. Iritis: The term "iritis" is derived from the Greek word "iris", which refers to the colored part of the eye. "Iritis" specifically denotes inflammation of the iris, which is the condition being described in this term.
Together, "sympathetic iritis" refers to a condition in which one eye develops inflammation in response to inflammation occurring in the other eye.