Ch.11 Special senses - eyes and ears Flashcards
Opt/i, opt/o, optic/o, ophathalm/o
eyes
receptor organs for the sense of sight
ir/i, ir/o, irid/o, irit/o
iris
controls the amount of light entering the eye
phac/o, phak/o
lens
focuses rays of light on the retina
retin/o
retina
covers light images into electrical impulses and transmits them to the brain
dacryocyst/o, lacrim/o
lacrimal apparatus
accessory structures of the eyes that produce, store, and remove tears
acus/o, acust/o, audi/o, audit/o, ot/o
ears
receptor organs for the sense of hearing; also helps maintain balance
pinn/i
outer ear
transmits sound waves to the middle ear
myring/o, tympan/o
middle ear
transmits sound waves to the inner ear
labyrinth/o
inner ear
receives sound vibrations and transmits them to the brain
blephar/o
eyelid
-cusis
hearing
irid/o
iris, colored part of eye
kerat/o
cornea, hard, or horny
myring/o
tympanic membrane, eardrum
ophthalm/o
eye or vision
-opia
vision condition
opt/o
vision or eye
ot/o
ear or hearing
phak/o
lens of eye
presby/o
old age
retin/o
retina, net
scler/o
white of eye, sclera or hard
trop/o
turn or change
tympan/o
tympanic membrane, eardrum
adnexa
the appendage or accessory structures of an organ. In the eye, these are the structures outside the eyeball, including the orbit, eye muscles, eyelids, eyelashes, conjunctiva, and lacrimal apparatus
amblyopia
dimness of vision or the partial loss of sight, especially in one eye, without detectable disease of the eye
ametropia
any error of refraction in which images do not focus properly on the retina
anisocoria
a condition in which the pupils are unequal in size
astigmatism
a condition in which the eye does not focus properly because of uneven curvatures of the cornea
audiometry
the use of an audiometer to measure hearing acuity
cataract
the loss of transparency of the lends of the eye that causes a progressive loss of visual clarity
chalazion
a nodule or cyst, usually on the upper eyelid, caused by obstruction in a sebaceous gland
cochlear implant
an electronic device that bypasses the damaged portions of the ear and directly stimulates the auditory nerve
conjunctivitis
inflammation of the conjunctiva, usually caused by an infection or allergy; also known as pinkeye
dacryoadenitis
an inflammation of the lacrimal gland that can be bacterial, viral, or fungal infection
diplopia
the perception of two images of a single object; also known as double vision
ectropion
the eversion (turning outward) of the edge of an eyelid
emmetropia
the normal relationship between refractive power of the eye and the shape of the eye that enables light rays to focus correctly on the retina
entropion
the inversion (turning inward) of the edge of an eyelid
esotropia
strabismus characterized by an inward deviation of one eye or both eyes; also known as cross-eyes
exotropia
strabismus characterized by the outward deviation of one eye relative to the other; also known as walleye
fluorescein angiography
a photographic study of the blood vessels in the back of the eye following the intravenous injection of a fluorescein dye that acts as a contrast medium
glaucoma
a group of eye diseases characterized by increased intraocular pressure (IOP) that causes damage to the optic nerve and retinal nerve fibers
hemianopia
blindness in one-half of the visual field
hordeolum
a pus-filled and often painful lesion of the eyelid resulting from an infection in a sebaceous gland; also known as a stye
hyperopia
a vision defect in which light rays focus beyond the retina; also known as farsightedness
infectious myringitis
a contagious inflammation associated with a middle-ear infection that causes painful blisters on the eardrum
iridectomy
the surgical removal of a portion of the iris tissue
iritis
inflammation of the uvea affecting primarily structures in the front of the eye
keratitis
inflammation of the cornea
labyrinthectomy
the surgical removal of all or a portion of the labyrinth of the inner ear
laser trabeculoplasty
treatment of open-angle glaucoma in which a laser is used to create an opening in the trabecular meshwork to allow fluid to drain properly
mastoidectomy
the surgical removal of mastoid cells
mydrasis
the dilation of the pupil
myopia
a vision defect in which light rays focus in front of the retina; also known as nearsightedness
myringotomy
a small surgical incision into the eardrum to relieve pressure from excess pus or fluid or to create an opening for the placement of ear tubes
nyctalopia
a condition in which an individual with normal daytime vision has difficulty seeing at night; also known as night blindness
nystagmus
involuntary, constant, rhythmic movement of the eyeball
opathalmoscopy
the visual examination of the fundus (back part) of the eye with an ophthalmoscope; also known as a funduscopy
optometrist
a specialist who holds a Doctor of Optometry degree and provides primary eye care, including diagnosing eye disease and conditions are measuring the accuracy of vision to determine if corrective lenses are needed
otitis media
inflammation of the middle ear
otomycosis
a fungal infection of the external auditory canal; also known as swimmer’s ear
otopyorrhea
the flow of pus from the ear
otorrhea
any discharge from the ear
otosclerosis
ankylosis of the bones of the middle ear, resulting in a conductive hearing loss
papilledema
swelling and inflammation of the optic nerve at the point of entrance into the eye through the optic disk; also known as choked disk
periorbital edema
swelling of the tissues surrounding the eye or eyes
photophobia
excessive sensitivity to light
presbycusis
a gradual sensorineural hearing loss that occurs as the body ages
presbyopia
decline of near vision that occurs with age as the lends becomes less flexible and the muscles of the ciliary body become weaker
ptosis
dropping o the upper eyelid that is usually due to paralysis
radial keratotomy
a surgical procedure to treat myopia
retinopexy
treatment to reattach the detached area in a retinal detachment
scleritis
inflammation of the sclera of the eye
sensorineural hearing loss
deafness that develops when the auditory nerve or hair cells in the inner ear are damaged
stapedectomy
the surgical removal of part of the stapes bone and its replacement with a small prosthetic device
strabismus
a disorder in which the eyes point in different directions or are not aligned correctly because the eye muscles are unable to focus
trasorrhaphy
the partial or complete suturing together of the upper and lower eyelids
tinnitus
a ringing, buzzing, or roaring sound in one or both ears
tinnitus
a ringing, buzzing, or roaring sound in one or both ears
tonometry
the part of a routine eye examination in which intraocular pressure (IOP) is measured
tympanometry
the use of air pressure in the ear canal to test for disorder of the middle ear
vertigo
a sense of whirling, dizziness, and the loss of balance, often combined with nausea and vomiting
vitrectomy
the removal of the vitreous fluid of the posterior chamber of the eye and its replacement with a clear solution
xerophthalmia
drying of the eye surfaces; including the conjunctiva; also known as dry eye
OD
right eye (oculus dexter)
OS
left eye (oculus sinister)
OU
each eye (oculus uterque) or both eyes (oculi uterque)
oculus
means eye and the plural is oculi
the joint commission
is the largest American standards-setting and accrediting body in health care, recommends writing out these terms instead of using abbreviations
structures of the eye include the eyeball
and the adnexa that are attached to or surround the eyeball
major structures of the eyeball
-lacrimal gland (under the eyelid)
-eyelashes
-outer canthus
-lower eyelid
-conjunctiva
-iris
-sclera
-inner canthus
-pupil
-upper eyelid
adnexa of the eyes
also known as adnexa oculi, are the structures outside the eyeball. These include (whats listed above)
adnexa
means the accessory or adjoining anatomical parts of an organ. the term adnexa is plural
orbit
also known as the eye socket, is the boney cavity of the skull that contains and protects the eyeball and its associated muscles, blood vessels, and nerves
6 major eye muscles
which are arranged into three pairs:
-superior and inferior oblique muscles
-superior and inferior rectus muscles
-lateral and medial rectus muscles
oblique
describes an angle that is slanted but is not perpendicular or parallel.
rectus
means straight
binocular vision
occurs when the muscles of both eyes work together in coordination to make normal depth perception possible.
depth perception
is the ability to see things in three dimensions
upper and lower eyelids
together with the eyebrows and eyelashes help protect the eyeball from foreign matter, excessive light, and injuries due to other causes
canthus
is the angle where the upper and lower eyelids meet. The plural of canthus is canthi
canth
means corner of the eye-
-us
is a singular noun ending
-the edges of the eyelids contain oil-producing sebaceous glands.
cilia
which are small hairs, make up the eyebrows and eyelashes. Cilia are also present in the nose to prevent foreign matter from being inhaled
tarsus
also known as the tarsal plate, is the framework within the upper and lower eyelids that provides the necessary stiffness and shape. The plural of tarsus is tarsi. NOTE: tarsus also refers to the several tarsal bones of the foot’s instep
conjunctiva
is the transparent mucous membrane that lines the underside of each eyelid and continues to form a protective covering over the exposed surface of the eyeball. The plural of conjunctiva is conjunctivae.
Primary functions are:
-keep the front surface of the eye moist and lubricated.
-Keep the inner surface of the eyelids moist and lubricated so they open and close easily without friction or causing eye irritaion
-protect the eye from dust, debris and infection-causing microorganisms
lacrimal apparatus
also known as the tear apparatus, consists of the structures that produce, store, and remove tears.
Lacrimation
is the secretion of tears
lacrimal glands
which secrete lacrimal fluid (tears) are located on the underside of the upper eyelid just above the outer corner of each eye
lacrimal fluid
commonly known as tears, is to maintain moisture on the anterior surface of the eyeball. Blinking distributes the lacrimal fluid across the eye
lacrimal canal
consists of a duct at the inner corner of each eye. These ducts collect tears and empty them into the lacrimal sacs. Crying is the overflowing of tears from the lacrimal canals
lacrimal sac
also known as the tear sac, is an enlargement of the upper portion of the lacrimal duct
lacrimal duct
also known as the nasolacrimal duct, is the passageway that drains excess tears into the nose
eyeball
also known as the globe, is a 1-inch sphere with only about one-sixth of its surface visible
optic
means pertaining to the eye or sight
ocular
means pertaining to the eye
extraocular
means outside the eyeball
extra-
means on the outside
-ar
means pertaining to
intraocular
means iwthin the eyeball
intra-
means within
walls of the eyeball
the walls of the eyeball are made up of three layers; the sclera, choroid, and retina
sclera
also known as the white of the eye, maintains the shape of the eye and protects the delicate inner layers of tissue. This tough, fibrous tissue forms the outer layer of the eye, except for the part covered by the cornea. Notes: combining form scler/o means the white of the eye, and it also means hard.)
choroid
also known as the choroid coat, is the opaque middler layer of the eyeball that contains many blood vessels and provides the blood supply for the entire eye
opaque
means that light cannot pass through this substance
retina
is the sensitive innermost layer that lines the posterior segment of the eye. the retina receives nerve impulses and transmits them to the brain via the optic nerve. This is also known as the second cranial nerve
segments of the eyeball
the interior of the eyeball is divided into the anterior and posterior segments
anterior segment of the eye
the anterior segment makes up the front one-third of the eyeball. This segment is divided into anterior and posterior chambers
-the anterior chamber is located behind the cornea and in front iris. The posterior chamber is located behind the iris and in front of the ligaments holding the lens in place. Note: Don’t confuse the posterior chamber with the posterior segment
aqueous humor
which is also known as aqueous fluid, fills both of these chambers. The term aqueous means watery or containing water. As used here, the term humor describes any clear body liquid or semifluid substance
aqueous humor
helps the eye maintain its shape and nourishes the intraocular structures. This fluid is constantly filtered and drained through the trabecular meshwork and the canal of Schlemm
intraocular pressure (IOP)
is the measurement of the fluid pressure inside the eye. This pressure is regulated by the rate at which aqueous humor enters and leaves the eye
posterior segment
which makes up the remaining two-thirds of the eyeball, is lined with the retina and filled with vitreous humor. Also known as vitreous gel, this is a soft, clear, jelly-like mass that contains millions of fine fibers. These fibers, which are attached to the surface of the retina, help the eye maintain its shape
rods and cones
of the retina receive images that have passed through the lends of the eye. These images are converted into nerve impulses and transmitted to the brain via the optic nerve. Rods are the black and white receptors, and cones are the color receptors
macula
also known as the macula lutea, is the clearly defined light-sensitive area area in the center of the retina that is responsible for sharp central vision. Note that the term macula means a small spot. A macula, also known as a macule, can also refer to a small, discolored spot on the skin, such as a freckle
fovea centralis
is a pit in the middle of the macula. Color vision is best in this area because it contains a high concentration of cones and no rods
optic disk
also known as the blind spot, is a small region in the eye where the nerve endings of the retina enter the optic nerve. This is called the blind spot, because it does not contain any rods or cones to convert images into nerve impulses
optic nerve
transmits these nerve impulses from the retina to the brain
uvea
is the pigmented layer of the eye. It has a rich blood supply and consists of the choroid, ciliary body and iris
ciliary body
which is located within the choroid, is a set of muscles and suspensory ligaments that adjust the thickness of the lens to refine the focus of light rays on the retina
-the ciliary body produces the aqueous humor that fills the anterior segment of the eye
-to focus on nearby objects, these muscles adjust the lens to make it thicker
-to focus on distant objects, these muscles stretch the lends so it is thinner
iris
is the colorful circular structure that surrounds the pupil. The muscles within the iris control the amount of light that is allowed to enter the eye through the pupil.
-To decrease the amount of light entering the eye, the muscles of the iris contract, making the opening of the pupil smaller
-to increase the amount of light entering the eye, the muscles of the iris relax, or dilate, making the opening of the pupil larger.
dilate
refers to expanding any opening of the body, for example ,the dilating of the cervix during childbirth
cornea
is the transparent outer surface of the eye covering the iris and pupil. It is the primary structure focusing light entering the eye.
puil
is the black circular opening in the center of the iris that permits light to enter the eye
lens
is the clear, flexible, curved structure that focuses images on the retina. The lens is contained within a clear capsule located behind the iris and pupil
accommodation
is the process whereby the eyes make adjustments for seeing objects at various distances. These adjustments include contraction (narrowing) and dilation (widening) of the pupil, movement of the eyes, and changes in the shape of the lens
convergence
is the simultaneous inward movement of the eyes toward each other. This occurs in an effort to maintain single binocular vision as an object comes nearer
emmetropia
is the normal relationship between the refractive power of the eye and the shape of the eye that enables light rays to focus correctly on the retina
emmetr
means in proper measure
-opia
means vision condition
refraction
also refractive power, is the ability of the lens to bend light rays so they focus on the retina.
visual acuity
is the ability to distinguish object details and shape at a distance
acuity
means sharpness
ophthalmologist
is a physician who specializes in diagnosing and treating the full spectrum of diseases and disorders of the eyes, from vision correction to eye surgery
ophthalm
means eye
optometrist
holds a doctor degree and provides primary eye care, including diagnosing eye diseases and conditions and measuring the accuracy of vision to determine whether corrective lenses are needed
optician
is a health care practitioner who designs, fits, and dispenses lenses for vision correction
ptosis
is the drooping of the upper eyelid that is usually due to paralysis. The term blepharoptosis has the same meaning
ptosis
means drooping or sagging
chalazion
is a nodule or cyst, usually on the upper eyelid, caused by obstruction in a sebaceous gland. The plural of chalazion is chalazie. A chalazion is a type of granuloma
hordeolum
also known as a stye, is a pus-filled and often painful lesion on the eyelid resulting from an acute infection in a sebaceous gland. Compare with chalazion
blepharitis
is swelling of the eyelid, often at the location of the eyelash hair follicles
blephar
means eyelid
ectropion
is the eversion of the edge of an eyelid. Eversion means turning outward. This usually affects the lower lid, thereby exposing the inner surface of the eyelid to irritation and preventing tears from draining properly.
Ectropion
is the opposite of entropion
entropion
is the inversion of the edge of an eyelid. Inversion means turning inward. This usually affects the lower eyelid and causes the eyelashes to rub against the cornea. Entropion is the opposite of ectropion
en-
means in
trop
means turn
-ion
means condition
periorbital edema
is swelling of the tissues surrounding the eye or eyes. This can give the face a bloated appearance and cause the eyes to be partially covered by the swollen eyelids. This swelling is associated with conditions such as allergic reaction, nephrotic syndrome and cellulitis
peri-
means surrounding
orbit
means eyeball
-al
means pertaining to
conjunctivitis
also known as pinkeye, is an inflammation of the conjunctiva that is usually caused by an infection or allergy
conjunctiv
means conjunctiva
-itis
means inflammation
dacryoadenitis
is an inflammation of the lacrimal gland caused by a bacterial, viral, or fungal infection. Signs and symptoms of this condition include sudden severe pain, redness, and pressure in the orbit of the eye
dacry/o
means tear
aden
means gland
subconjunctival hemorrhage
is bleeding between the conjunctiva and sclera. This condition, which is usually caused by an injury, creates a red area over the white of the eye
xerophthalmia
also known as dry eye, is drying of eye surfaces, including the conjunctiva, because the tear glands do not produce enough tears. This condition is often associated with aging. It can also be due to systemic diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis or caused a lack of vitamin D
uveitis
is an inflammation of the uvea causing swelling and irritation. Complications from uveitis can potentially lead to permanent vision loss
iritis
is the most common form of uveitis. This inflammation of the uvea affects primarily structures in the front of the eye. This condition has a sudden onset and may last six to eight weeks
corneal abrasion
is an injury, such as a scratch or irritation, to the outer layers of the cornea. Compare with corneal ulcer
corne
means cornea
-al
means pertaining to
corneal ulcer
is pitting of the cornea caused by an infection or injury. Although these ulcers heal with treatment, they can leave a cloudy scar that impairs vision. Compare with corneal abrasion
diabetic retinopathy
is damage to the retina as a complication of uncontrolled diabetes. As diabetic retinopathy progresses, diabetic macular edema can occur
keratitis
is an inflammation of the cornea. This condition can be due to many causes, including bacterial, viral, or fungal infections. (note: kerat/o also means hard)
kerat
means cornea
keratoconus
occurs when the cornea becomes irregular and cone-shaped, causing blurring and distortion of vision
scleritis
is an inflammation of the sclera. This condition is usually associated with infections, chemical injuries, or autoimmune diseases
scler
means white of the eye
anisocoria
is a condition in which the pupils are unequal in seize. This condition can be congenital or caused by a head injury, an aneurysm, or pathology of the central nervous system
cataract
is the loss of transparency of the lens that causes a progressive loss of visual clarity. The formation of most cataracts is associated with aging; however, this condition can be congenital or due to an injury or disease
floaters
also known as vitreous floaters, are particles of cellular debris that float in the vitreous humor and cast shadows on the retina. Floaters often occur normally but may be an indication of retinal detachment, especially when accompanied by photopsia
photopsia
is the presence of what appears to be flashes of light, or flashers. These are often caused by damage to the eye or migraine headaches
miosis
is the contraction of the pupil, normally in response to exposure to light but also possibly due to the use of prescription or illegal drugs
mio-
means smaller
-sis
means abnormal condition
mydriasis
is the dilation of the pupil, is the opposite of miosis. The causes of mydriasis include diseases, trauma (injury), and drugs
mydrias
means the dilation of the pupil
nystagmus
is an involuntary, constant, rhythmic movement of the eyeball that can be congenital or caused by a neurological injury or drug use
papilledema
also known as choked disk, is swelling and inflammation of the optic nerve at the point of entrance into the eye through the optic disk. This swelling is caused by increased intracranial pressure and can be due to a tumor pressing on the optic nerve
retinal detachment
also known as detached retina, and retinal tears are the separation of some or all of the light-sensitive retina from the choroid. If not treated, the entire retina can detach, causing blindness. These condition can be caused by head trauma, aging, or the vitreous humor separating from the retina
retinitis pigmentosa
is a progressive degeneration of the retina that affects night and peripheral vision. It can be detached by the presence of dark pigmented spots in the retina
temporal arteritis
is a form of vasculitis that can cause a sudden vision loss, usually in one eye
glaucoma
is a group of diseases characterized by increased intraocular pressure that causes damage to the retinal nerve fibers and the optic nerve. this increase in pressure is caused by a blockage in the flow of fluid out of the eye. If untreated, this pressure can cause the loss of peripheral vision and eventually blindness.
Open-angle glaucoma
also known as chronic glaucoma, is by far the most common form of this condition. The trabecular meshwork gradually becomes blocked, causing a buildup of pressure. Symptoms of this condition are not noticed by the patient until the optic nerve has been damaged; however, it can be detected earlier through regular eye examinations, including tonometry and visual field testing.
closed angle glaucoma
also known as acute glaucoma, is opening between the cornea and iris narrows so that fluid cannot reach the trabecular meshwork. This narrowing can cause a sudden increase in the intraocular pressure that produces severe pain, nausea, redness of the eye, and blurred vision. Without immediate treatment, blindness can occur in as little as two days
macular degeneration
is a gradually progressive condition in which the macula at the center of the retina is damaged, resulting in the loss of central vision but not in total blindness
macul
means spot
age-related macular degeneration
occurs most frequently in older people and is the leading cause of severe vision loss in those over 60
dry macular degeneration
which accounts for 90% of all AMD cases, caused by the slow deterioration of the cells of the macula
met macular degeneration
is an advanced form of dry AMD. New blood vessels growing beneath the retinal cells. These small hemorrhages usually result in rapid and severe vision loss
diplopia
also known as double vision, is the perception of two images of a single object. It is sometimes a symptom of serious underlying disorder such as multiple sclerosis or a brain tumor
Hemianopia
is blindness in one-half of the visual field
hemi-
means half
an-
means without
-opia
means visual condition
monochromatism
also known as color blindness, is the inability to distinguish certain colors in a normal manner. This is a genetic condition caused by deficiencies in or the absence of certain types of cones in the retina
mon/o
means one
chromat
means color
-ism
means condition
Nyctalopia
also known as night blindness, is a condition in which an individual with normal daytime vision has difficulty seeing at night
nyctal
means night
photophobia
means excessive sensitivity to light and can be the result of migraines, excessive wearing of contacts lenses, drug use, or inflammation
presbyopia
is the condition of common changes in the eyes that occur with agin. With age, near vision declines noticeably as the lens becomes less flexible and the muscles of the ciliary body becomes weaker. The result is that the eyes are no longer able to focus the image properly on the retina
presby
means old age
strabismus
is a disorder in which the eyes point in different directions or are not aligned correctly, because the eye muscles are unable to focus together
esotropia
also known as cross-eyes, is strabismus characterized by an inward deviation of one or both eyes.
eso-
means inward
exotropia
also known as walleye, is strabismus characterized by the outward deviation of one eye relative to the other
exo-
meanas outward
trop
means turn
-ia
means abnormal condition
refractive disorder
is a focusing problem that occurs when the lens and cornea do not bend light so that it focuses properly on the retina
hyperopia
also known as farsightedness, is a defect in which light rays focus beyond the retina. This condition can occur in childhood but usually causes difficulty after age 40. Hyperopia is the opposite of myopia
ametropia
is any error of refraction in which images do not focus properly on the retina. Astigmatism, hyperopia and myopia are all forms of ametropia
astigmatism
is a condition in which the eye does not focus properly because of uneven curvatures of the cornea
myopia
also known as nearsightedness, is a defect in which light rays focus in front of the retina. This condition occurs most commonly around puberty. Myopia is the opposite of hyperopia
hyper-
means excessive
-opia
means vision condition
my
is from the greek word for shortsighted
blindness
is the inability to see
legal blindness
is the point at which, under law, an individual is considered to be blind. A commonly used standard is that a person is legally blind when his or her best-corrected vision is reduced to 20/200 or less
amblyopia
is a dimness of vision or the partial loss of sight, especially in one eye, without detectable disease of the eye
ambly
means dim or dull
scotoma
also known as blind spot, is an abnormal area of diminished vision surrounded by an area of normal vision
snellen chart (SC)
is used to measure visual acuity. The results for each eye are recorded as a fraction with 20/20 being considered normal
-the first number indicates the standard distance from the chart, which is 20 feet
-the second number indicates the deviation from the norm based on the ability to read progressively smaller lines of letters on the chart
refraction test
is done to determine an eye’s refractive error so that the best corrective lenses can be prescribed. This term also refers to the ability of the lens to bend light rays so they focus on the retina
diopter
is the unit of measurement of a lens’s refractive power
cover test
is an examination of how the two eyes work together and is used to assess binocular vision. One eye at a time is covered while the patient focuses on an object across the room
visual filed testing
also known as perimetry, is performed to determine losses in peripheral vision. Peripheral means occurring away from the center. Blank sections in the visual field can be symptomatic of glaucoma or an optic nerve disorder. This test is done by having the patient look straight ahead and indicate whether or not they can see an object or flash of light when it is presented in their periphery
Ophthalmoscopy
also known as funduscopy, is the use of an ophthalmoscope to visually examine the fundus (back part) of the eye. This examination includes the retina, optic disk, choroid, and blood vessels
dilation
of the eyes is required in preparation for the ophtalmoscopic examination of the interior of the eye. Artificial enlargement of the pupils is achieved through the use of mydriatic edrops
mydriatic drops
are placed into the eyes to produce temporary paralysis, forcing the pupils to remain dilated even in the presence of bright light
slit-lamp ophthalmoscopy
is a diagnostic procedure in which a narrow beam of light is focused onto parts of the eye to permit the ophthalmologist to examine the structures at the front of the eye, including the cornea, iris, and lens. Often fluorescein staining is used to help detect foreign bodies or an infected or injured area of the eye
fluorescein staining
is the application of fluorescent dye to the surface of the eye via eye drops or a strip applicator. This dye causes a corneal abrasion to temporarily appear bright green
fluorescein angiography
is a photographic study of the blood vessels in the back of the eye following the intravenous injection of a fluorescein dye as a contrast medium. The resulting angiograms are used to determine whether there is proper circulation in the retinal vessels
PERRLA
is an acronym meaning:
Pupils are
Equal
Round
Responsive to
Light and
Accommodation.
This diagnostic observation, and any abnormality here could indicate a head injury or damage to the brain
Tonometry
is the measurement of intraocular pressure. Abnormally high pressure can be an indication of glaucoma
ton/o
means tension
-metry
means to measure
orbitotomy
is a surgical incision into the orbit. This procedure is performed for biopsy, abscess drainage, or removal of a tumor or foreign object
orbit
means bony socket
-otomy
means surgical incision
tarsorrhaphy
is the partial or complete suturing together of the upper and lower eyelids to protect the eye when the lids are paralyzed and unable to close normally
tars/o
means eyelid.
rrhaphy
means surgical suturing
corneal transplant
also known as keratoplasty, is the surgical replacement of a scarred or diseased cornea with clear corneal tissue from a donor
enucleation
is the removal of the eyeball, leaving the eye muscles intact
e-
means out of
nucle
means nucleus
-ation
means action
ocular prosthesis
also known as an artificial eye, may be fitted to wear over a malformed eye or to replace an eyeball that is either congenitally missing or has been surgically removed. A prothesis is an artificial substitute for a diseased or missing body part
iridectomy
is the surgical removal of a portion of the tissue of the iris. This procedure is most frequently performed to treat closed-angle glaucoma
radial keratotomy
is a surgical procedure to treat myopia. During the surgery, incisions are made in the cornea to casue it to flatten. These incisions allow the sides of the cornea to bulge outward and thereby flatten the central portions of the cornea. This brings the focal point of the eye closer to the retina and improves distance vision. Compare with LASIK, in the later section “Laser Treatments of the Eyes”
scleral buckle
is a silicone band or sponge used to repair a detached retina. The detached layers are brought closer together by attaching this band onto the sclera, or outer wall, of the eyeball, creating an indentation or buckle effect inside the eye
virectomy
is the removal of the vitreous humor and its replacement with a clear solution. This procedure is sometimes performed to treat a retinal detachment or when diabetic retinopathy causes blood to leak and cloud the vitreous humor
vitr
means vitreous humor
-ectomy
means removal
lensectomy
is the general term used to describe the surgical removal of a cataract-clouded lens
phacoemulsification
is the use of ultrasonic vibration to shatter and remove the lens clouded by a cataract. This performed through a very small opening, and the same opening is used to slide the intraocular lens into place
intraocular lens (IOL)
is a surgically implanted replacement for the natural lens that has been removed. There are two types of IOLs, monofocal and multifocal, which was designed to eliminate the need for corrective lenses
intra-
means within
ocul
means eye
corrective lenses
refractive errors in the eye can often be corrected with lenses that alter the angle of light rays before they reach the cornea. Glasses with concave lenses (curved inward) are used for myopia, or nearsightedness, and glasses with cortex lenses (curved outward) for hyperopia (farsightedness)
-corrective lenses can combine two or three different refractive powers, one above the other, to allow for better distance vision when looking up and near vision when looking down. Bifocals are lenses with two powers. Trifocals are lenses with three powers
-strabismus is sometimes treated with corrective lenses or an eye path covering the stronger eye and thus strengthening the muscles in the weaker eye
-contact lenses are refractive lenses that float directly on the tear film in front of the eye. Rigid gas-permeable lenses cover the central part of the cornea, and disposable soft lenses cover the entire cornea
laser iridotomy
uses a focused beam of light to create a hole in the iris of the eye. This procedure is performed to treat closed-angle glaucoma by creating an opening that allows the aqueous humor to flow between the anterior and posterior chambers of the anterior segment of the eye
irid
means iris
laser trabeculoplasty
is used to treat open-angle glaucoma by creating in the trabecular meshwork to allow the fluid to drain properly
LASKIK
is the acronym for Laser-Assisted in Situ Keratomileusis.
Photocoagulation
is the use of a laser treat some forms of wet macular degeneration by sealing leaking or damaged blood vessels. This technique is also used to repair small retinal tears by intentionally forming scar tissue to seal the holes
Retinopexy
is used to reattach the detached area in a retinal detachment.
retin/o
means retina
-pexy
means surgical fixation
pneumatic retinopexy
a gas bubble is injected into the vitreous cavity to put pressure on the area of repair while it heals. The bubble gradually dissipates. Lasers are sued to remove clouded tissue that may have formed in the posterior portion of the lens capsule after cataract extraction
functions of the ear
the ears the receptor organs of hearing, and their functions are to receive sound impulses and transmit them to the brain. The inner ear also helps maintain balance. The abbreviations relating to the ears, with the Latin words from which they originated.
AD
right ear (auris dexter)
AS
left ear (auris sinister)
AU
each ear (auris uterque) or both ears (auris unitas)
auditory
means pertaining to the sense of hearing.
audit
means hearing or sense of hearing
-ory
means pertaining to
acoustic
means pertaining to sound or hearing
acous
means hearing or sound
3 regions are divided:
the outer ear, the middle ear, and the inner ear
pinna
also known as the auricle or the outer ear, is the external portion of the ear. The pinna captures sound waves and transmits them into the external auditory canal
external auditory canal
transmits these sound waves to the tympanic membrane (eardrum) of the middle ear
cerumen
also known as earwax, is secreted by ceruminous glands that line the auditory canal. This sticky yellow-brown substances has protective functions because it traps small insects, dust, and some bacteria to prevent them from entering the middle ear
middle ear
which is located between the outer ear and the inner ear, transmits sound across the space between these two parts
tympanic membrane
also known as the eardrum, is located between the outer and middle ear. The word parts myring/o and tympan/o both tympanic membrane. When sound waves reach the eardrum, this membrane transmits the sound by vibrating
mastoid process
is the temporal bone containing hollow air space that surrounds the middle ear. As used here, a process is a projection on a structure such as a bone
auditory ossicles
are three small bones located the middle ear. The role of these bones is to transmit the sound waves from the eardrum to the inner ear by vibration. These bones are named for the Latin terms that describe their shapes. They are as follows:
Malleus - also known as the hammer
Incus - also known as the anvil
Stapes - also known as the stirrup
eustachian tubes
also known as the auditory tubes, are narrow tubes that lead from the middle ear to the nasal cavity and the throat. The purpose of these tubes is to equalize the air pressure within the middle ear with that of the outside atmosphere
inner ear
contains the sensory receptors for hearing and balance. The structures of the inner ear are a maze-like system known as the labyrinth
oval window
which is located under the base of the stapes, is the membrane that separates the middle ear from the inner ear. Vibrations enter the inner ear through this structure
cochlea
is the snail-shaped structure of the inner ear and is where the sound vibrations are converted into nerve impulses. Located within the cochlea are the cochlear duct, the organ of Corti, the semicircular canals, and the acoustic nerves. Cochlea come from the Greek term for snail
organ of Corti
receives the vibrations from the cochlear duct and relays them to the auditory nerve fibers. These fibers transmit the sound impulses to the auditory center of the brain’s cerebral cortex, where they are heard and interpreted
semicircular canals
connected to the cochlea by the vestibule, contain the liquid endolymph and sensitive hair cells. The bending of these hair cells in response to the movements of the head sets up impulses in nerve fibers to help maintain equilibrium.
Equilibrium
is the state of balance
acoustic nerves (cranial nerve VIII)
also called auditory nerves, transmit this information to the brain. The acoustic nerves are made up of two parts: cochlear nerves and vestibular nerves
cochlear nerves
transmit sound for hearing
vestibular nerves
that sense balance and head position
structures of the ears
the ear is divided into three separate regions: the outer ear, middle ear and the inner ear
the outer ear
pinna, external auditory canal, cerumen
pinna
also known as the auricle or the outer ear, is the external portion of the ear. the pinna captures sound waves and transmits them into the external auditory canal
external auditory canal
transmits these sound waves to the tympanic membrane (eardrum) of the middle ear
cerumen
also known as earwax, is secreted by ceruminous glands that line the auditory canal. This sticky yellow-brown substances has protective functions because it traps small insects, dust, debris, and some bacteria to prevent them from entering the middle ear.
middle ear
which is located between the outer ear and the inner ear, transmits sound across the space between these two parts:
tympanic membrane and the mastoid process
tympanic membrane
also known as the eardrum, is located between the outer and middle ear. The word parts myring/o and tympan/o both mean tympanic membrane. When sound waves reach the eardrum, this membrane transmits the sound by vibrating
mastoid process
is the temporal bone containing hollow hair space that surrounds the middle ear. As used here, a process is a projection on a structure such as a bone
auditory ossicles
are three small bones located within the middle ear. The role of these bones is to transmit the sound waves from the eardrum to the inner ear by vibration. These bones are named for the Latin terms that describe their shapes. They are as follows:
-malleus
-incus
-stapes
malleus
also known as the hammer
incus
also known as the anvil
stapes
also known as the stirrup
eustachian tubes
also known as the auditory tubes, are narrow tubes that lead from the middle ear to the nasal cavity and the throat. The purpose of these tubes is to equalize the air pressure within the middle ear with that of the outside atmosphere
normal action of the ears
air conduction
bone conduction
sensorineural conduction
air conduction
is the process by which sound waves enter the ear through the pinna and then travel down the external auditory canal until they strike the tympanic membrane, which is located between the outer ear and the middle ear
bone conduction
occurs as the eardrum vibrates and causes the auditory ossicles of the middle ear to vibrate. The vibration of these bones transmits the sound waves through the middle ear to the oval window of the inner ear
sensorineural conduction
occurs when these sound vibrations reach the inner ear. The structures of the inner ear receive the sound waves and relay them to the auditory nerve for transmission to the brain
audiologist
specializes in the measurement of hearing function and in the rehabilitation of person with hearing impairments. An otolaryngologist is previous discussed
audi-
means hearing
otolaryngologist
ear, nose and throat physician
speech-language pathologist (SLP)
can be involved in numerous medical areas including audiology. These practitioners help patients who have problems related to swallowing, speech, and communication disorders
outer ear
impacted cerumen
otalgia
otitis
otomycosis
otopyorrhea
otorrhea
otorrhagia
impacted cerumen
is an accumulation of earwax that forms a solid mass by adhering to the walls of the external auditory canal. Impacted means lodged or wedged firmly in place
otalgia
also known as an earache, is pain in the ear
ot
means ear
-algia
means pain
otitis
means any inflammation of the ear. The second part of the term gives the location of the inflammation. For example, otitis externa is an inflammation of the external auditory canal, also known as swimmer’s ear
otlomycosis
is a fungal infection of the external auditory canal.
myc-
means fungus
-osis
means abnormal condition
otopyorrhea
is the flow of pus from the ear
py/o
means pus
-rrhea
means flow or discharge
otorrhea
is any discharge from the ear. In rare cases this could include leakage of cerebrospinal fluid
otorrhagia
is bleeding from the ear
-rrhagia
means bleeding
the middle ear
barotrauma
cholesteatoma
mastoiditis
infectious myringitis
otitis
otosclerosis
barotrauma
is a pressure-related ear condition. These conditions can be caused by pressure changes when flying, driving in the mountains, or scuba diving or when the eustachian tube is blocked
bar/o
means pressure
-trauma
means injury
cholesteatoma
also known as a pearly tumor, is a destructive epidermal cyst in the middle ear and/or the mastoid process made up of epithelial cells and cholesterol. It can be congenital or a serious complication of chronic otitis media
cholesteat
refers to cholesterol
-oma
means tumor
mastoiditis
is an inflammation of any part of the mastoid bone. This condition may develop when acute otitis media that cannot be controlled with antibiotics spreads to the mastoid process
mastoid
means mastoid process
infectious myringitis
is a contagious inflammation that causes painful blisters on the eardrum. The condition is associated with a middle ear infection. It is not to be confused with infectious meningitis, which is an inflammation of the brain and spinal cord
myring
means eardrum
otitis media
is an inflammation of the middle ear
acute otitis media
is usually associated with an upper respiratory infection and is most commonly seen in young children. This condition can lead to a ruptured eardrum due to the buildup of pus or fluid in the middle ear
serous otitis media
is a fluid buildup in the middle ear without symptoms of an infection. This condition can follow acute otitis media or can be caused by obstruction of the eustachian tube
otosclerosis
is the ankylosis of the bones of the middle ear, resulting in a conductive hearing loss. Ankylosis means fused together. Ankylosis means fused together. This condition is treated with a stapedectomy
labyrinthitis
is an inflammation of the labyrinth that can result in vertigo and deafness
vertigo
is a sense of whirling, dizziness, and loss of balance that is often combined with nausea and vomiting. Although it is a symptom of many disorders, recurrent vertigo is sometimes associated with inner ear problems such as Méniére’s disease
benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (BPPV)
is a common cause of vertigo that occurs when there is a shift in the location of small crystals in the semicircular canals. BBPV, labyrinthitis, and Meniere’s disease are examples vestibular disorders, which are disorders of the body’s balance-controlling vestibular system in the inner ear.
meinere’s disease
is a rare chronic disorder in which the amount of fluid in the inner ear increases intermittently, producing attacks of vertigo, a fluctuating hearing loss (usually in one ear) and tinnitus
tinnitus
is a condition of a ringing, buzzing, or roaring sound in one or both ears. It is often associated with hearing loss and is more likely to occur when there has been prolonged exposure to loud noises
acoustic neroma
is a brain tumor that develops adjacent to the cranial nerve running from the brain to the inner ear. This is one of the most common types of brain tumors and can cause hearing loss, vertigo, and tinnitus
acous
means hearing
-tic
means pertaining to
neuro
means nerve
-oma
means tumor
deafness
is the complete or partial loss of the ability to hear. It can range from the inability to hear sounds of the certain pitch or intensity, or to a complete loss of hearing
presbycusis
is a gradual loss of sensorineural hearing that occurs as the body ages
presby
means old age
-cusis
means hearing
conductive hearing loss
occurs when sound waves are prevented from passing from the air to the fluid-filled inner ear. Causes of this hearing loss include a buildup of earwax, infection, fluid in the middle ear, a punctured eardrum, otosclerosis, and scarring. This type of hearing loss can often be treated
sensorineural hearing loss
also known as nerve deafness, develops when the auditory nerve or hair cells in the inner ear are damaged. This is usually due to age, noise exposure, or an acoustic neuroma. The source of this hearing loss can be located in the inner ear, in the nerve from the inner ear to the brain, or in the brain
noise-induced hearing loss (NIHL)
is a type of nerve deafness caused by repeated exposure to extremely loud noises such as a gunshot or to moderately loud noises that continue for long periods of time
-These noises can permanently damage the hair cells in the cochlea, and at least partial hearing loss occurs. Unfortunately, this gradual hearing loss usually isn’t noticed until some hearing has been permanently destroyed
-any sound above 85 decibels (dB) can cause some hearing loss if the exposure is prolonged. Most portable music players and smartphones can produce sounds up to 105 dB, which is louder than a lawn mower or a chain saw and is the equivalent to an ambulance siren
decibel
is commonly used as the measurement of the loudness of sound
audiological evaluation
also known as speech audiometry, is the measurement of the ability to hear and understand speech sounds based on their pitch and loudness. This testing is best achieved in a sound-treated room with earphones. The resulting graph is an audiogram that represents the ability to hear a variety of sounds at various loudness levels
audiometry
is the use of an audiometer to measure hearing acuity. An audiometer is an electronic device that produces acoustic stimuli of a set frequency and intensity
How is sound measured
hertz and decibels
a Hertz (Hz) is a measure of sound frequency that determines how high or low a pitch is.
otoscope
which is an instrument used to examine the external ear canal. A pneumatic otoscope has the attachment of a bulb filled with air; during an exam with an otoscope the bulb is pressed to visualized whether or not the tympanic membrane is immobile, indicating possible otitis media
monaural testing
involves one ear. Comare with binaural testing
mono-
means one
binaural testing
involves both ears.
bin-
means two
tympanometry
is the use of air pressure in the ear canal to test for disorders of the middle ear. This resulting record is a tympanogram. This is used to test for middle-ear fluid buildup or eustachian tube obstruction, or to evaluate a conductive hearing loss
acoustic reflectometry
measures how much sound is reflected back from the eardrum, a way to test how much fluid is in the middle ear to diagnose otitis media
Weber and Rinne test
use a tuning fork to distinguish between conductive and sensorineural hearing losses. This patient’s perception of the tuning fork’s vibrations helps evaluate his or her hearing ability by air conduction compared to that of bone conduction
otoplasty
is the surgical repair, restoration, or alteration of the pinna of the ear. This is sometimes done as cosmetic surgery called ear pinning to bring protruding ears closer to the head
-plasty
means surgical repair
ear tubes
formally known as tympanostomy tubes, are tiny ventilating tubes placed through the eardrum to provide ongoing drainage for fluids and to relieve pressure that can buildup after childhood ear infections
mastoidectomy
is the surgical removal of mastoid cells. This procedure is used to treat mastoiditis that cannot be controlled with antibiotics or in preparation for the placement of a cochlear implant
-ectomy
means surgical removal
myringotomy
is a small surgical incision in the eardrum to relieve pressure from excess pus or fluid or to create an opening for the placement of ear tubes
myring
means eardrum
-otomy
means surgical incision
stapedectomy
is the surgical removal of the top portion of the stapes bone and the insertion of a small prosthetic device known as a piston that conducts sound vibrations to the inner ear
staped
means stapes
tympanoplasty
is the surgical correction of a damaged middle ear, either to cure chronic inflammation or to restore function.
tympan/o
means eardrum
labyrinthectomy
is the surgical removal of all or a portion of the labyrinth. This procedure is performed to relieve uncontrolled vertigo; however, it causes complete hearing loss in the affected ear
vestibular rehabilitation therapy (VRT)
is a form of physical therapy designed to treat a wide variety of balance disorders, the majority of which are caused by problems in the inner ear and vestibular nerve
vestibul
means an enterance
assistive listening device (ALD)
transmits, processes, or amplifies sound and can be used with or without a hearing aid. An ALD can be helpful in eliminating distracting background noise. The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) requires that many public places provide assisted listening devices
cochlear implant
is an electronic device that bypasses that damaged portions of the ear and directly stimulates the auditory nerve. The external speech processor captures sounds and converts them into digital signals. Electrodes that are implanted into the cochlea receive the signals and stimulate the auditory nerve. The brain receives these signals and perceives them as sound; however, it may take several months to adjust to the difference in speech when it is received in this manner
fenestration
is a surgical procedure in which a new opening is created in the labyrinth to restore lost hearing
fenestr/a
means window
-tion
means process
hearing aids
are electronic devices that are worn to correct a hearing loss. Sometimes a sensorineural hearing loss can be corrected with a hearing aid
analog hearing aid
is an external electronic device that uses a microphone to detect and amplify sounds
digital hearing aid
uses a computer chip to convert the incoming sound into a code that can be filtered before being amplified. This is designed to best compensate for a specific type of hearing loss. Hearing aid technology has steadily advanced, and some are even programmable from a smart phone or tablet
hearing aids are worn:
behind the ear (BTE), in the ear (ITE), in the canal (ITC) or completely in the canal (CIC)
astinmatism
AS
CAT
cataract
CI
conjunctivitis
EM, em
emmetropia
FA, FAG
fluroescein angiography
G, glc
glaucoma
MD
macular degeneration
RK
radial keratotomy
RD
retinal detachment
SLE
slit-lamp examination
VA
visual acuity
VF
visual field
acoust/o
hearing, sound
blephar/o
eyelid
ir/i
iris
labyrinth/o
inner ear
presby/o
old age
inra-
within
peri-
surrounding
sub-
below
-algia
pain
-cusis
hearing
-metry
to measure
-opia
vision condition
-pexy
surgical fixation
-scope
instrument for visual examination
-tomy
surgical incision
EOMI
extraocular movements intact
HEENT
head, eyes, ears, nose, throat
LASIK
laser-assisted in situ keratomileusis
OE
otitis externa
OM
otitis media
PERRLA
Pupils Equal, Round, Reactive to Light and Accommodation
TM
tympanic membrane, eardrum
