Visus dimidiatus is a term used in ophthalmology that refers to a visual field defect in which only half of the visual field is visible. Its spelling is fairly straightforward, with each word adhering to standard Latin spelling conventions. Visus, meaning "vision," is pronounced in IPA as /ˈvɪ.sus/ and is spelled with a single "s" rather than a double "ss" as in English. Dimidiatus, meaning "halved," is pronounced /dɪˌmɪ.dɪˈeɪ.təs/ and follows the usual pattern for English loanwords derived from Latin.
Visus dimidiatus refers to a visual condition or impairment characterized by the partial loss or reduction of vision in one or both eyes, resulting in only half of the visual field being perceived. The term "visus" signifies vision or the ability to see, whereas "dimidiatus" refers to something that is halved or reduced by half. This condition can be congenital or acquired, originating from various causes such as eye injury, disease, or neurological conditions.
People with visus dimidiatus typically experience a noticeable diminishment in their overall visual acuity, as well as a restricted awareness of their surroundings. The loss of the other half of their visual field can lead to difficulties in daily activities that require navigation, recognition of objects or people from the affected side, and safe mobility. In some cases, individuals may need to compensate by turning or tilting their heads to maximize their remaining field of vision.
Treatment for visus dimidiatus often involves visual aids or strategies to enhance the overall visual functioning and optimize the visual field. These may include the use of corrective lenses, prisms, or prescribed vision exercises to improve eye coordination and strengthen the remaining visual capacity. Rehabilitation programs and support from healthcare professionals specializing in low vision can also assist individuals in adapting to their reduced field of vision and maximizing their overall visual potential.
Hemianopsia.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
The term "visus dimidiatus" is a Latin phrase that translates to "half vision" in English.
The etymology of the phrase can be broken down as follows:
1. "Visus" - This is the Latin word for "sight" or "vision" and derives from the verb "vidēre", which means "to see".
2. "Dimidiatus" - This is the Latin word for "halved" or "divided in half" and originates from the root "dimidius", meaning "half".
Therefore, "visus dimidiatus" literally means "half vision" in Latin and is often used in the medical field to describe the condition where a person has lost or reduced vision in one eye.