Staphyloma and Ectasia

Staphyloma and Ectasia

Staphyloma refers to a bulging of the sclera in which the underlying uvealtissue in the bulge is also thinned or degenerated. By far the most common form is posterior staphyloma in severe myopia, a bulging of the entire posterior pole of the eyeball (Fig. 6.1). Staphyloma can also occur secondary to scleritis (see Fig. 6.4).

Ectasia is a thinning and bulging of the sclera without uveal involvement,as can occur secondary to inflammation.

Both staphyloma and ectasia are secondary or incidental findings. No treatment is available.