Synchysis scintillans

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Synchysis scintillans
Synonyms	Cholesterolosis bulbi
Pronounce	N/A
Specialty	N/A
Symptoms	Floaters, visual impairment
Complications	Retinal detachment
Onset	Typically after vitreous hemorrhage or inflammation
Duration	Chronic
Types	N/A
Causes	Degeneration of the vitreous body
Risks	Diabetes mellitus, ocular trauma, intraocular surgery
Diagnosis	Ophthalmoscopy, ultrasound
Differential diagnosis	Asteroid hyalosis, vitreous hemorrhage
Prevention	N/A
Treatment	Usually none required, vitrectomy in severe cases
Medication	N/A
Prognosis	Generally good, but depends on underlying cause
Frequency	Rare
Deaths	N/A

Synchysis scintillans is a degenerative eye condition characterized by the presence of small, shiny, crystal-like deposits in the vitreous humor. These deposits are typically cholesterol or fats and are often associated with chronic inflammation or retinal detachment. The condition is also known as Cholesterolosis bulbi and is most commonly seen in elderly individuals or those with a history of eye trauma or surgery.

Symptoms

The primary symptom of synchysis scintillans is the appearance of numerous, small, shiny particles in the patient's field of vision. These particles, or "floaters," move with the eye and can interfere with vision, particularly in bright light. Other symptoms may include blurred vision, flashes of light, or a decrease in peripheral vision.

Causes

Synchysis scintillans is typically caused by chronic inflammation in the eye, often as a result of conditions such as uveitis or retinal detachment. It can also occur following eye surgery or trauma. The condition is more common in elderly individuals, as the vitreous humor naturally degenerates with age.

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of synchysis scintillans is typically made through a comprehensive eye examination, including a dilated eye exam. The presence of the characteristic shiny particles in the vitreous humor is usually sufficient for diagnosis. Additional tests may be performed to determine the underlying cause of the condition.

Treatment

There is currently no cure for synchysis scintillans, and treatment is typically focused on managing the underlying cause of the condition. This may include treatment for inflammation, surgery to repair a retinal detachment, or management of other underlying conditions. In some cases, a vitrectomy may be performed to remove the vitreous humor and replace it with a saline solution.

See also

• Vitreous humor
• Retinal detachment
• Uveitis