What does achromatopsia mean?
Achromatopsia is a rare, non-progressive congenital disorder of the eye characterized by complete color blindness, sensitivity to light, and a lack of pupillary constriction in response to light. This condition affects approximately 1 in 30,000 people worldwide and is often inherited in an autosomal recessive pattern. Achromatopsia can make everyday activities like driving and reading extremely challenging, and individuals with the condition may experience increased sensitivity to light and glare. Researchers have made significant progress in understanding the genetic causes of achromatopsia, and ongoing studies aim to develop effective treatments and therapies for this condition. While achromatopsia is a rare condition, it is an important area of study in the fields of ophthalmology and genetics.
nounA rare, non-progressive congenital disorder of the eye characterized by complete color blindness, sensitivity to light, and a lack of pupillary constriction in response to light.
- A rare, non-progressive congenital disorder of the eye characterized by complete color blindness, sensitivity to light, and a lack of pupillary constriction in response to light.
"The patient was diagnosed with achromatopsia, a condition that made everyday activities like driving and reading extremely challenging."
"The patient was diagnosed with achromatopsia, a condition that made everyday activities like driving and reading extremely challenging."
"The researchers studied the genetic causes of achromatopsia to better understand the condition."
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Etymology of achromatopsia
The term achromatopsia is derived from the Greek words α- (a-) meaning 'without' and χρωματός (chromatos) meaning 'color'. This etymology reflects the condition's primary characteristic: the complete absence of color vision.
Usage notes
Achromatopsia is a rare condition, and the term is often used in medical and scientific contexts. It is not commonly used in everyday conversation.