OPHTHALMOPATHY Meaning and
Definition
-
Ophthalmopathy is a medical condition characterized by inflammation, dysfunction, and changes in the tissues surrounding the eyeball. It primarily affects the connective tissues, muscles, and fatty tissues in the eye socket, commonly referred to as the orbit. Ophthalmopathy is often associated with thyroid dysfunction, particularly Graves' disease, but can also occur independently.
The condition typically presents with symptoms such as protrusion of the eyeballs, swelling and redness around the eyes, excessive tearing, dryness or irritation of the eyes, double vision, and difficulty moving the eyes. These manifestations result from the inflammation and swelling of the tissues within the orbit, leading to compression of the optic nerves and muscles responsible for eye movement.
Ophthalmopathy can be a progressive and chronic condition, sometimes leading to permanent visual impairment or disfigurement of the eye. Treatment options may include managing the underlying thyroid dysfunction, as well as interventions aimed at reducing inflammation and addressing specific symptoms. This may involve the use of corticosteroids, immunosuppressive medications, artificial tears, and in severe cases, surgery to decompress the orbit or correct structural abnormalities.
It is important for individuals with ophthalmopathy to undergo regular eye examinations and work closely with healthcare professionals to manage the condition effectively. Early intervention and appropriate treatment can help minimize complications and preserve visual function.
-
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
Common Misspellings for OPHTHALMOPATHY
- opthalmopathy
- iphthalmopathy
- kphthalmopathy
- lphthalmopathy
- pphthalmopathy
- 0phthalmopathy
- 9phthalmopathy
- oohthalmopathy
- olhthalmopathy
- o-hthalmopathy
- o0hthalmopathy
- opgthalmopathy
- opbthalmopathy
- opnthalmopathy
- opjthalmopathy
- oputhalmopathy
- opythalmopathy
- ophrhalmopathy
- ophfhalmopathy
- ophghalmopathy
Etymology of OPHTHALMOPATHY
The word "ophthalmopathy" can be broken down into two parts: "ophthalm" and "pathy".
- "Ophthalm" is derived from the Greek word "ophthalmos", meaning "eye". This root is also seen in other related terms such as "ophthalmology".
- The suffix "pathy" comes from the Greek word "pathos", meaning "suffering" or "disease". It is commonly used in medical terminology to refer to a disorder or abnormal condition.
Therefore, "ophthalmopathy" refers to any disorder or abnormal condition affecting the eyes.
Infographic
Add the infographic to your website:
