Ectasia
Ectasia
Ectasia (pronounced: ek-TAY-zee-uh) is a medical term that refers to the dilation or distension of a tubular structure in the body. The term is derived from the Greek word "ektasis," which means "stretching out."
Definition
Ectasia is a condition characterized by the abnormal enlargement or dilation of a blood vessel, tube, duct, or canal in the body. This can occur in various parts of the body, including the cornea, breast, aorta, and bronchi. The dilation can be due to a variety of causes, such as inflammation, infection, or congenital defects.
Types
There are several types of ectasia, including:
- Corneal ectasia: This is a rare condition where the cornea, the clear front surface of the eye, thins and bulges outward into a cone shape. This can lead to distorted vision.
- Ductal ectasia: This condition involves the dilation of the milk ducts in the breast. It is most commonly seen in women nearing or in menopause.
- Aortic ectasia: This refers to the abnormal dilation of the aorta, the main artery that carries blood from the heart to the rest of the body. This can lead to aortic aneurysm if not treated.
- Bronchiectasis: This is a condition where the bronchi, the airways that carry air to the lungs, become abnormally widened. This can lead to recurrent lung infections and breathing difficulties.
Treatment
Treatment for ectasia depends on the type and severity of the condition. It may involve medication, surgery, or other interventions. For example, corneal ectasia may be treated with special contact lenses or corneal transplant, while aortic ectasia may require surgery to repair or replace the affected part of the aorta.
See Also
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Ectasia
- Wikipedia's article - Ectasia
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