panophthalmitis
Pronunciation: pan-off-thal-MY-tis
Severe intraocular inflammation involving all eye layers, potentially complicating tumor treatment or indicating tumor necrosis. Requires emergency management.
Full Definition
A severe form of intraocular inflammation that involves all layers of the eye, including the vitreous, retina, choroid, and sclera, often with orbital involvement. In ocular oncology, panophthalmitis may occur as a complication of radiation therapy, surgical procedures, or as a result of tumor necrosis and secondary infection. This condition represents an ophthalmologic emergency requiring immediate systemic antibiotic therapy and often leading to globe loss if not rapidly controlled.
Usage
Usage note: Do not hyphenate. Distinguish from 'endophthalmitis' which is limited to intraocular structures.
In Context
- "Post-radiation panophthalmitis required immediate systemic antibiotic therapy." — emergency consultation note
- "Tumor necrosis led to secondary panophthalmitis and eventual enucleation." — complication report