How Do You Spell NEONATAL CONJUNCTIVITIS?

Pronunciation: [nˈiːə͡ʊnˌe͡ɪtə͡l kənd͡ʒˌʌŋktɪvˈa͡ɪtɪs] (IPA)

Neonatal conjunctivitis, also known as ophthalmia neonatorum, is an eye infection that affects newborn babies. It is caused by bacteria or viruses passed on to the baby during delivery, and if left untreated, can lead to serious eye damage or blindness. The word "neonatal conjunctivitis" is spelled /niː.oʊ.ˈneɪ.təl kənˌdʒʌŋk.təˈvaɪ.tɪs/ using IPA phonetic transcription. It is pronounced nee-o-nay-tuhl kuhn-jungk-tuh-vahy-tis, with emphasis on the second syllable of "conjunctivitis".

Meaning and Definition
Etymology
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NEONATAL CONJUNCTIVITIS Meaning and Definition

  1. Neonatal conjunctivitis, also known as ophthalmia neonatorum, refers to an inflammation or infection of the conjunctiva, the thin, transparent tissue that covers the front surface of the eye and lines the inner surface of the eyelids, in newborn babies during the first 28 days of life. This condition is commonly caused by bacteria, viruses, or less frequently, certain sexually transmitted infections transmitted from the mother during childbirth.

    Neonatal conjunctivitis typically presents with symptoms including redness, swelling, and discharge from the eyes. Infants may also experience eyelid swelling and sensitivity to light. If left untreated, this condition can lead to serious complications such as corneal ulcers, scars, and impaired vision.

    To effectively manage neonatal conjunctivitis, prompt medical intervention is crucial. Treatment usually involves the administration of topical antibiotic eye drops or ointments to eliminate the underlying infection. In cases where a sexually transmitted infection is suspected, oral or intravenous antibiotics may also be prescribed. It is important to identify and treat the mother if she has an active infection to prevent recurrence or transmission to future children.

    Preventive measures, such as the application of antibiotic eye ointment immediately after birth, routine prenatal screenings, and appropriate treatment of maternal infections, can greatly reduce the incidence of neonatal conjunctivitis. Early detection and timely management of this condition are vital to protect the newborn's eye health and prevent long-term complications.

Etymology of NEONATAL CONJUNCTIVITIS

The word "neonatal conjunctivitis" consists of two main parts: "neonatal" and "conjunctivitis".

1. "Neonatal" comes from the Greek word "neonatos", which means "newborn" or "infant". It is derived from "neos", meaning "new", and "natos", meaning "born".

2. "Conjunctivitis" is derived from Latin and consists of two components: "conjunctiva" and the suffix "-itis". The term "conjunctiva" refers to the thin, clear membrane lining the inside of the eyelid and covering the white part of the eye. The suffix "-itis" indicates inflammation or infection. Therefore, "conjunctivitis" literally means inflammation of the conjunctiva.