Hemihypertrophy intestinal web corneal opacity

From WikiMD's Wellness Encyclopedia

Hemihypertrophy Intestinal Web Corneal Opacity is a rare medical condition characterized by a combination of hemihypertrophy, intestinal web, and corneal opacity. This condition involves an abnormal asymmetry of the body parts, typically one side of the body growing larger than the other, the development of a web-like obstruction in the intestine, and a loss of transparency in the cornea of the eye. Each of these symptoms can lead to significant health issues and complications on their own, but when combined, they present a unique and complex medical challenge.

Symptoms and Diagnosis[edit | edit source]

The primary symptoms of Hemihypertrophy Intestinal Web Corneal Opacity include:

  • Hemihypertrophy: An abnormal overgrowth of one side of the body or parts of the body. This can affect limbs, organs, or other body structures, leading to significant asymmetry.
  • Intestinal Web: A congenital condition where a thin membrane causes a partial or complete blockage of the intestine. This can lead to symptoms such as vomiting, abdominal pain, and severe constipation.
  • Corneal Opacity: A condition where the cornea becomes scarred or clouded, leading to decreased vision or blindness.

Diagnosis of this condition involves a comprehensive evaluation, including physical examination, imaging studies such as MRI or CT scans for hemihypertrophy, gastrointestinal imaging for intestinal web, and ophthalmological exams for corneal opacity.

Treatment[edit | edit source]

Treatment for Hemihypertrophy Intestinal Web Corneal Opacity is multidisciplinary and depends on the severity and impact of each component of the syndrome:

  • Hemihypertrophy may require monitoring for potential complications, such as an increased risk of certain cancers. In some cases, surgical intervention may be necessary to correct significant asymmetry or related orthopedic issues.
  • Intestinal Web typically requires surgical removal of the obstructive web to allow normal passage of food through the intestines.
  • Corneal Opacity treatment depends on the cause and severity of the opacity. In mild cases, no treatment may be necessary, while more severe cases might require corneal transplantation.

Prognosis[edit | edit source]

The prognosis for individuals with Hemihypertrophy Intestinal Web Corneal Opacity varies widely and depends on the severity of the symptoms and the success of treatment interventions. Early diagnosis and treatment are crucial for improving outcomes and quality of life.

Epidemiology[edit | edit source]

Due to its rarity, the exact prevalence of Hemihypertrophy Intestinal Web Corneal Opacity is unknown. It is considered an extremely rare condition with only a handful of cases reported in the medical literature.

See Also[edit | edit source]


Contributors: Prab R. Tumpati, MD