DISTRICHIASIS Meaning and
Definition
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Districhiasis is a medical condition characterized by the abnormal growth and presence of an extra row of eyelashes along the eyelid margin. These additional eyelashes, known as distichiae, emerge from the Meibomian gland openings, which are responsible for producing the oily layer that helps protect and lubricate the eye.
This condition is usually an inherited trait, but it can also be acquired as a result of certain underlying conditions or environmental factors. Districhiasis can occur in one or both eyes and may lead to various discomforting symptoms, including redness, itching, tearing, irritation, and a foreign body sensation.
If left untreated, the abnormally positioned eyelashes may come into contact with the surface of the eye, causing damage to the cornea or conjunctiva. Therefore, management of districhiasis often involves addressing the symptoms and preventing potential complications. Treatment options can include manual removal of the errant eyelashes, cryotherapy to freeze the Meibomian glands and eliminate hair follicles, or electrocautery to seal off the affected openings.
Regular follow-up visits with an ophthalmologist are recommended for individuals with districhiasis to monitor the condition, assess any changes, and implement additional interventions if necessary. In severe cases, surgical interventions such as electrolysis or laser therapy may be considered to provide permanent relief from the abnormal eyelash growth.
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Growth of two hairs in a single follicle.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
Common Misspellings for DISTRICHIASIS
- sistrichiasis
- xistrichiasis
- cistrichiasis
- fistrichiasis
- ristrichiasis
- eistrichiasis
- dustrichiasis
- djstrichiasis
- dkstrichiasis
- dostrichiasis
- d9strichiasis
- d8strichiasis
- diatrichiasis
- diztrichiasis
- dixtrichiasis
- didtrichiasis
- dietrichiasis
- diwtrichiasis
- disrrichiasis
- disfrichiasis
Etymology of DISTRICHIASIS
The word "districhiasis" originates from the combination of two Greek roots: "dis-" meaning "double" or "twice", and "trichos" meaning "hair". So "districhiasis" can be understood as a condition in which there are double or extra hairs growing from the eyelid.
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