What does exophthalmos mean?
Exophthalmos is a medical term that refers to a protrusion or bulging of the eyeball. It is often associated with thyroid disorders, such as Graves' disease, but can also be caused by other medical conditions. The term is typically used in a formal or medical context. Exophthalmos can be a noticeable symptom of a underlying medical condition, and it is often examined by a doctor to determine the cause. In some cases, exophthalmos can be a sign of a more serious condition, such as a tumor or an infection. Treatment for exophthalmos depends on the underlying cause, and may involve medication, surgery, or other interventions. Overall, exophthalmos is an important medical term that refers to a specific condition of the eye.
nounA protrusion or bulging of the eyeball, often due to a thyroid disorder or other medical condition.
- A protrusion or bulging of the eyeball, often due to a thyroid disorder or other medical condition.
"The patient's exophthalmos was a noticeable symptom of her Graves' disease."
"The patient's exophthalmos was a noticeable symptom of her Graves' disease."
"The doctor examined the patient's exophthalmos to determine the underlying cause."
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Etymology of exophthalmos
The term exophthalmos comes from the Greek words 'exo' (meaning 'out of') and 'phthalmos' (meaning 'eye'). It was first used in the 17th century to describe a protrusion or bulging of the eyeball. Over time, the term has been adopted into various languages and is now used in a medical context to describe a specific condition of the eye.
Usage notes
Exophthalmos is a medical term that refers to a protrusion or bulging of the eyeball. It is often associated with thyroid disorders, such as Graves' disease, but can also be caused by other medical conditions. The term is typically used in a formal or medical context.