Sympathetic ophthalmia
Sympathetic Ophthalmia
Sympathetic ophthalmia (pronounced: sim-puh-thet-ik op-thal-mee-uh) is a rare, bilateral, granulomatous uveitis that typically occurs after penetrating trauma to one eye.
Etymology
The term "sympathetic" in this context is derived from the Greek word "sympatheia", which means "fellow feeling" or "compassion". The term "ophthalmia" is derived from the Greek word "ophthalmos", which means "eye". Thus, the term "sympathetic ophthalmia" refers to a condition in which one eye becomes inflamed in 'sympathy' with the other eye following trauma.
Symptoms
Symptoms of sympathetic ophthalmia can include decreased vision, redness, pain, and sensitivity to light in both eyes. The onset of symptoms can occur days to several years after the initial eye injury.
Causes
Sympathetic ophthalmia is thought to be an autoimmune response to antigens released from the injured eye, which then trigger inflammation in the uninjured eye. The exact cause is still unknown.
Treatment
Treatment typically involves the use of corticosteroids and other immunosuppressive drugs to reduce inflammation. In severe cases, surgical removal of the injured eye may be necessary to prevent further damage to the uninjured eye.
Related Terms
- Uveitis: Inflammation of the uvea, the middle layer of the eye.
- Autoimmune disease: A condition in which the body's immune system attacks its own tissues.
- Corticosteroids: A class of drugs used to reduce inflammation.
- Immunosuppressive drugs: Medications that reduce the body's immune response.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Sympathetic ophthalmia
- Wikipedia's article - Sympathetic ophthalmia
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