How Do You Spell EXTERNAL OPHTHALMOPATHY?

1. External ophthalmopathy refers to a medical condition that affects the tissues surrounding the eyes, specifically the eyelids, orbital fat, and extraocular muscles. This condition is commonly associated with various thyroid disorders, such as Graves' disease, an autoimmune condition causing an overactive thyroid gland.

   External ophthalmopathy typically presents with a range of symptoms, including swelling and inflammation of the eyelids, eye discomfort, redness, and proptosis (bulging of the eyes). The condition may also lead to ocular surface abnormalities, such as dryness, irritation, and corneal exposure. In severe cases, the extraocular muscles might become enlarged or fibrotic, resulting in limited eye movements and double vision.

   The pathophysiology of external ophthalmopathy is not fully understood, but it is believed to involve an autoimmune reaction triggered by the immune system attacking the tissues surrounding the eyes. This immune response causes an increase in the production of thyroid-stimulating immunoglobulins, leading to inflammation, tissue edema, and eventual fibrosis.

   Treatment for external ophthalmopathy aims to mitigate symptoms and manage the underlying thyroid disorder. Various treatment options may be considered, including corticosteroids, lubricating eye drops, surgical decompression of the orbit, and radioactive iodine therapy to control the thyroid function. Close monitoring and management by an ophthalmologist, endocrinologist, or multidisciplinary team are crucial to preventing complications and optimizing visual outcomes.

2. Any disease of the conjunctiva, cornea, or adnexa of the eye.

   A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.

Common Misspellings for EXTERNAL OPHTHALMOPATHY

The word "external ophthalmopathy" is made up of two parts:

1. External: The word "external" is derived from the Latin word "externus", meaning "outer" or "pertaining to the outside". It is used to describe something located or occurring on the outside or surface.

2. Ophthalmopathy: The term "ophthalmopathy" comes from two Greek words: "opthalmos" meaning "eye", and "pathos" meaning "suffering" or "disease". Therefore, ophthalmopathy refers to any disease, disorder, or abnormality that affects the eye.

When combined, "external ophthalmopathy" refers to a condition that affects the outer structures of the eye, such as the eyelids or the surrounding tissues.