How Do You Spell ATROPHIC EXCAVATION?

1. Atrophic excavation is a medical term primarily used in the field of ophthalmology to describe a specific condition related to the optic nerve. It refers to a pathological or abnormal hollowed-out area or depression in the optic disc, which is the area in the back of the eye where the optic nerve connects to the retina. This excavation is a result of a loss or degeneration of nerve fiber tissue and is commonly associated with certain eye diseases and conditions, such as glaucoma.

   The term "atrophic" indicates the gradual wasting or degeneration of the nerve fibers in the optic disc, resulting in the formation of the excavation. This degenerative process is often caused by increased intraocular pressure, a characteristic feature of glaucoma. As the nerve fibers deteriorate, they form a depression or hollow area in the optic disc, which can be visually observed during a thorough eye examination.

   Clinically, the appearance of an atrophic excavation on the optic disc can be an indication of optic nerve damage and vision loss. The depth and size of the excavation may vary depending on the severity and progression of the underlying condition. Monitoring the size and changes in the atrophic excavation can help healthcare professionals assess the progression and management of glaucoma or other related eye disorders.

   Overall, atrophic excavation represents an abnormal hollowed-out area in the optic disc due to the degeneration or loss of nerve fibers, often associated with conditions like glaucoma.

2. An exaggeration of the normal or physiological cupping of the optic disc (excavatio papillae nervi optici) caused by atrophy of the optic nerve.

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

Common Misspellings for ATROPHIC EXCAVATION

The term "atrophic excavation" is composed of two parts: "atrophic" and "excavation".

1. Atrophic: The word "atrophic" comes from the Greek word "atrophos", which means "without nourishment" or "wasting away". The term "atrophic" is used to describe a condition or state of degeneration or shrinkage of an organ or tissue due to a loss of cells or decrease in cell size.

2. Excavation: The word "excavation" comes from the Latin word "excavare", which means "to hollow out". It refers to the process of digging, removing earth or material to create a hole or cavity.

When combined, "atrophic excavation" refers to a hollowed-out or sunken area caused by degeneration or shrinkage due to a loss of cells or tissue size.

Plural form of ATROPHIC EXCAVATION is ATROPHIC EXCAVATIONS