Phthisis Bulbi, sometimes referred to as "bulbus oculi," is an uncommon and deadly ocular disorder marked by the progressive degeneration and wasting away of the eyeball. Both the right and left eyes can be independently impacted, however it typically only affects one eye. The disorder is primarily non-inflammatory, resulting in a shrunken and non-functional eye.
Right & Left Phthisis Bulbi
Phthisis Bulbi is a phrase with Greek origins that means "wasted" or "shrunken" eye. It characterizes the final stage of ocular disorder where the eyeball experiences extreme shrinkage and degeneration. This disorder can be bilateral (both eyes are affected Right & left) or unilateral (just one eye is affected).
Right or Left Phthisis Bulbi is caused by the same factors as general Phthisis Bulbi. These include retinal detachment, glaucoma, eye infections, and physical damage.
Phthisis Bulbi Symptoms
Phthisis Bulbi symptoms might change depending on the condition's stage and severity. Some typical signs include:
Vision Loss
The eyesight of the damaged eye gradually declines as Phthisis Bulbi worsens, eventually impairing vision completely or partially.
Shrinkage of the Eye
When compared to the healthy eye, the damaged eye may obviously shrink and grow smaller in size.
Eye Discomfort
Due to the continuous degeneration process, patients may feel pain or discomfort in the affected eye.
Photophobia
Phthisis Bulbi patients may have increased sensitivity to light (photophobia).
Discoloration
The color of the damaged eye may alter, making it appear darker than the healthy eye.
Phthisis Bulbi Causes
There are numerous underlying factors that can contribute to the development of Phthisis Bulbi. Management and treatment require understanding these factors. Several typical causes are as follows:
Severe Eye Trauma
If severe eye trauma or injuries are not treated quickly and efficiently, Phthisis Bulbi may develop.
End-Stage Eye Diseases
Phthisis Bulbi can develop as a result of chronic, untreated eye problems including severe glaucoma or retinal detachment.
Infection and Inflammation
Phthisis Bulbi can advance as a result of untreated or persistent infections, inflammations, or intraocular inflammatory conditions.
Intraocular Tumors
Phthisis Bulbi can be caused by benign or malignant tumors within the eye if not diagnosed and treated early.
Phthisis Bulbi Diagnosis
A thorough eye exam performed by a qualified ophthalmologist is necessary to diagnose Phthisis Bulbi. The following steps may be involved in the diagnosis:
Visual Acuity Test
The degree of vision loss in the affected eye is determined by a visual acuity test.
Intraocular Pressure Measurement
To rule out glaucoma as a probable cause of Phthisis Bulbi, intraocular pressure is assessed.
Ocular Imaging
The interior eye structures can be seen and any anomalies can be found using sophisticated imaging techniques like ultrasonography or MRI.
Treatment Options
Although Phthisis Bulbi is irreversible and the affected eye cannot be restored to normal function, the following treatments can help manage the condition and enhance the patient's quality of life:
Artificial Eye
When a prosthetic eye is used, the look of the damaged eye can be improved, and feelings of awkwardness can be reduced.
Pain Management
To control any discomfort or pain brought on by Phthisis Bulbi, doctors may prescribe painkillers.
Emotional Support
Counseling or support groups may be helpful for patients to deal with the emotional and psychological effects of the disease.
Phthisis Bulbi ICD-10 Code
This code specifies phthisis bulbi as a type of globe atrophy. Additionally, there are more specific ICD-10 codes for right eye globe atrophy (H44.521) and nonspecific eye globe atrophy (H44.529).
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