Vocabulary Flashcards
1
Q
Optometrist
A
An independent practitioner trained in the prescription of eyeglasses and contact lenses as well as in the detection of eye disease.
2
Q
Optician
A
An Independent professional licensed to dispense eye glasses and contact lenses from the prescription of an ophthalmologist or optometrist.
3
Q
Orthoptist
A
A professional who works under the direction of an ophthalmologist to help with the diagnosis, management, and nonsurgical treatment of eye muscle imbalance and related visual impairments.
4
Q
Ocularist
A
A professional who measures and fits patients with an artificial eye (prosthesis) to replace an absent eye or cover an unsightly one.
5
Q
Ophthalmic Photographer
A
A professional who photographs eye structures for diagnosis and documentation
6
Q
Ophthalmic Medical Assistant
A
A professional who assists the ophthalmologist in a variety of diagnostic and administrative tasks, including performing certain tests, administering certain topical medications or diagnostic drugs, and helping with office surgical procedures.
7
Q
COA
A
Certified Ophthalmic Assistant
8
Q
COT
A
Certified Ophthalmic Technician
9
Q
COMT
A
Certified Ophthalmic Medical Technologist
10
Q
CDOS
A
Certified Diagnostic Ophthalmic Sonographer
11
Q
ROUB
A
Registered Ophthalmic Ultrasound Biometrist
12
Q
OSA
A
Ophthalmic Surgical Assisting
13
Q
ATPO
A
Association of Technical Personnel in Ophthalmology
14
Q
JCAHPO
A
Joint Commission on Allied Health Personnel in Ophthalmology
15
Q
OPS
A
Ophthalmic Photographers Society
16
Q
ASORN
A
American Society of Ophthalmic Registered Nurses
17
Q
Ophthalmologist
A
Medical Doctor that specializes in eye care, often a surgeon.
18
Q
Globe
A
Another term for the eye itself, where visual function begins
19
Q
Cornea
A
The clear membrane at the front of the globe that begins the process of focusing light the eye receives.
20
Q
Iris
A
The colored circle of tissue that controls the amount of light entering the eye by enlarging or reducing the size of its aperture, the pupil
21
Q
Pupil
A
The opening in the center of the iris that enlarges or dilates (admitting more light) and reduces or constricts (admitting less light).
22
Q
Crystalline Lens
A
The second primary light-focusing structure of the eye, located behind the iris, responsible for 1/3 of the eye’s light focusing power.
23
Q
Vitreous Body
A
Clear jelly-like substance that fills the majority of the eye, it is optically transparent, and light passes through unaffected
24
Q
Retina
A
The inner back surface of the eye, contains light-sensitive cells that stimulates the sensation of sight.
25
Abduction
The movement of the eye outward toward the temple
26
Aberrometry
The measurement of optical aberrations of the visual system using a device called a wavefront analyser, or an aberrometer.
27
Abrasion
A scratch.
28
Abcess
A localized collection of pus surrounded by inflamed tissue.
29
Absolute Scotoma
A severe visual field defect in which the largest and brightest stimulus cannot be seen; blindness at that particular location
30
Accomodation
The change in the curvature of the crystalline lens that helps to focus images of objects close to the eye.
31
Acidic burns
A chemical injury to tissue, caused by an agent of low pH.
32
Acquired Immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS)
A infection with Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) that causes a compromised immune system.
33
Acute
Refers to a condition that flares up suddenly and persists for only a short time.
34
Add
The portion of the multifocal lens (usually the lower part) that provides correction for near vision. Also called "segment" or "near add".
35
Adduction
The movement of the eye inward toward the nose.
36
Adenovirus
A family of viruses involved primarily in respitory infections; can cause highly contagious forms of conjunctivitis.
37
Adnexa
The tissues and structures surrounding the eye; includes the obit, extraocular muscles, eyelids, and lacrimal apparatus
38
Afferent Pupillary Defect (APD)
A pupil with normal iris function that fails to constrict normally with direct light stimulation but reacts strongly consensually, or when the fellow eye is stimulated. Usually secondary to optic nerve disease.
39
"Against Motion"
The retinoscopic reflex movement that is in the opposite direction from the movement of the streak of light from the retinoscope; typical of the myopic eye.
40
Age-Related Macular Degeneration (AMD)
A disease in which sensory cells of the macula degenerate, resulting in a loss of central vision; usually affects older people.
41
Alkali Burn
A chemical injury to tissue, caused by an agent of high pH.
42
Allergic Reaction
A condition in which the body produces antibodies to foreign materials such as food, plant pollens, or medications.
43
Alternate Cover Test
A test performed by placing an occluder over one eye and then moving it slowly over to the other eye to detect a tendency for the eyes to deviate while under the occluder (such an ocular misalignment is known as a phoria). Also called "cross-cover test."
44
Altitudinal scotoma
The joining and enlargement of a nasal step visual field defect and an arcuate scotoma to cause loss of the entire upper or lower visual field.
45
Amblyopia
Decreased vision present without apparent abnormalities in the ocular anatomy and uncorrectable by spectacles or contact lenses; results from visual deprivation in early childhood.
46
Ametropia
The refractive state of an eye that is unable to focus correctly due to a refractive error.
47
Amsler grid test
A test for determining the presence and location of defects in the central portion of the visual field.
48
Anatomy
The structure of an organism.
49
Anesthetic
A drug that causes a temporary deadening of a nerve, resulting in a loss of feeling in the surrounding tissue.
50
Angiogenesis
The formation of new blood vessels
51
Angiography
A method of examining and recording size, structure, and location of blood vessels in organ systems using florescent dyes.
52
Anisocoria
A condition in which the pupils are of unequal size.
53
Anterior
The front part of a structure.
54
Anterior Chamber Angle
The junction of the cornea and the iris, from which aqueous humor leaves the eye. Also called filtration angle.
55
Anterior Chamber
The small compartment between the cornea and the iris that is filled with a clear, transparent fluid called aqueous humor.
56
Anterior Ischemic Optic Neuropathy (AION)
Insufficient blood flow to the optic nerve head resulting in a lack of oxygen and subsequent infarction of (loss of) the nerve fibers and loss of vision.
57
Anterior Segment
The front of the eye; includes the structures between the front surface of the cornea and the vitreous.
58
Anti-Angiogenesis
A process or agent that prevents new blood vessel growth.
59
Antibiotic
A drug that combats a bacterial infection
60
Antibody
A chemical substance that the body manufactures to neutralize an infecting microorganism, toxin, or foreign agent.
61
Antifungal
A drug that combats a fungal infection.
62
Antimetabolite
A substance that interferes with a metabolite necessary for normal metabolic functions; often used to disrupt proliferation of cancerous or other abnormal cells, antimetabolites may also be used to prevent normal regrowth in circumstances where it is not desirable.
63
Antireflective (AR)
A treatment that reduces or eliminates reflections from the surface of a lens.
64
Antivascular endothelium growth factor (anti-VEGF)
A therapeutic drug used in intravitreal injections that targets vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF). It acts by diminishing the stimulus for abnormal new vessel growth (angiogenesis), a known cause of wet age-related macular degeneration.
65
Antiviral
A drug that combats a viral infection.
66
Apex
The top, as of a prism.
67
Aphakia
The absence of the crystalline lens, usually because of cataract extraction.
68
Aphakic Correction
The use of a contact lens, eyeglasses, or an intraocular lens to improve visual acuity in aphakic patients.
69
Applanation
A form of tonometry in which the force required to flatten a small area of the central cornea is measured and extrapolated into intraocular pressure.
70
Aqueous Humor
The clear, transparent fluid that fills the anterior chamber.
71
Arc Perimeter
An instrument used to test peripheral vision using bands of half circles placed at various meridians.
72
Arcuate Scotoma
An arc-shaped area of reduced sensitivity, or blindness, in the visual field. Also known as Bjerrum Scotoma or Comet Scotoma
73
Arcus Senilis
A common degenerative change in which the outer edge of the cornea gradually becomes more opaque, generally in both eyes; usually affects people over the age of 50.
74
A-scan Ultrasonography
A diagnostic procedure in which sound waves traveling in a straight line are used to reveal the position of, and distances between, structures within the eye and orbit. This technology helps to determine the power selection of an intraocular lens. Also called "A-mode ultrasonography".
75
Aseptic Technique
A range of procedures used in medical environments to prevent the spread of infectious microbes.
76
Astigmatic Keratotomy (AK)
A surgical technique to correct astigmatism that employs transverse or arcuate incisions perpendicular to the steepest meridian of the cornea.
77
Astigmatism
The refractive error of an eye whose corneal surface curvature is greater in one meridian than another; both distant and near objects appear blurred and distorted.
78
Asymptomatic
Without symptoms of disease.
79
Atrophic
Loss of tissue or cellular density.
80
Autoclave
A metal chamber equipped to use steam or gas under high pressure and temperature to destroy microorganisms.
81
Autoimmune Diseases
Diseases in which normal immune function is altered, causing the body to produce antibodies against its own cells; examples include Sjogren syndrome, systemic lupus erythematosus, and ulcerative colitis.
82
Autoplot
Brand name for a refined version of the tangent screen (older kinetic perimetric device) for measuring the central 30 degrees of vision.
83
Axial Length
The length of the eyeball from the front (cornea) to the back (retina), measured through the optical center.
84
Axial Ray
A light ray that strikes the center of a lens of any shape and passes undeviated through the lens material. Also called "principle ray".
85
Axis
The meridian perpendicular to the meridian with curvature in a cylindrical lens.
86
Axon
The long fiber-like portion of a ganglion cell that courses over the surface of the retina and converges at the optic disc.
87
Bacteria
Single Celled microorganisms, widely dispersed in nature; some bacteria are capable of causing disease in humans.
88
Balancing
A procedure performed on both eyes at once to ensure that the optical correction determined by refractometry for distance vision does not include an uneven overcorrection or undercorrection. Also called "binocular balancing".
89
basal cell carcinoma
The most common malignant lid tumor; has a characteristic appearance of a pit surrounded by raised "pearly" edges.
90
Base
The bottom, as of a prism.
91
Base Curve
The curve of the lens surface, usually the outer or front side of the lens, from which the other curves necessary for sight correction are calculated.
92
Bifocal Lens
One that has two powers: usually one for correcting distance vision and one for correcting near vision.
93
Bifocals
A lens with two visual purposes; commonly the correction of both distance and near vision.
94
Binary fission
The form of cellular reproduction by a bacterium, by splitting in two.
95
Binocular Vision
The blending of the separate images seen by each eye into one image; occurs when both eyes are directed toward a single target and perfectly aligned.
96
Bipolar Cell
A type of retinal cell that accepts electric (nerve) impulses from the photo-receptors and passes them to the ganglion cells.
97
Bitemporal Hemianopia
A visual field defect affecting the temporal half of the field of both eyes.
98
Blepharitis
A common inflammation of the eyelid margin.
99
Blowout Fracture
An injury caused by blunt force applies to the eye, creating pressure that fractures the orbital bones.
100
Blunt Lacrimal Cannula
An unsharpened needle used to pass into the tear system puncta and canaliculus.
101
Blunt Trauma
Tissue damage caused by a non-penetrating force.
102
Bowman's Membrane
The second corneal layer that lies under the outermost epithelium and above the stroma; also known as the anterior limiting membrane
103
Branch Retinal Artery Occlusion (BRAO)
Obstruction of blood flow in a tributary vessel of the central retinal artery.
104
Brightness Acuity Tester (BAT)
A handheld instrument used to assess the disability that occurs when glare interferes with a patient's visual acuity or quality of vision.
105
B-Scan Ultrasonography
A diagnostic procedure that proves two dimensional reconstruction of ocular and orbital tissues using radiating sound waves. Also called B-mode ultrasonography.
106
Bulbar Conjunctiva
The portion of the conjunctiva that covers the globe to the edge of the cornea.
107
Calibration
The testing of any device against a known standard; for example, the illumination of a perimetric device.
108
Canal of Schlemm
A structure that drains the aqueous humor from the anterior chamber after is has flowed through the trabecular meshwork.
109
Cannula
A blunt-tipped tube used during surgery for injecting or extracting fluid or air.
110
Canthus
The point where the upper and lower eyelids meet on the nasal (inner) side (medial canthus) and the temporal (outer) side (lateral canthus).
111
Cardinal Positions of Gaze
The 6 points to which a patient's eyes are directed, to test the major function of each extraocular muscle; the positions are right and up, right, right and down, left and up, left, and left and down.
112
Cardiovascular System
The body system consisting of the heart and blood vessels (arteries and veins).
113
Cataract
An opacified or clouded lens.
114
Cautery
The application of heat by electric current by means of a specialized instrument; used to destroy a lesion or the stem bleeding.
115
Cells
The primary building blocks of biologic tissue.
116
Central Retinal Artery Occlusion (CRAO)
Obstruction of blood flow in the main feeder vessel of the retina (central retinal artery).
117
Central Scotoma
A visual field defect in the center of the field.
118
Chalazion
A chronic inflammation resulting from an obstructed meibomian glad in the eyelid. The acute condition is called an internal hordeolum.
119
CHemical Trauma
Refers to injury caused by a chemical, such as an acid or alkali.
120
Chief Complaint
That part of the health history in which the patient describes the primary reason for seeking health care; it should be recorded in the patient's own words as nearly as possible.
121
Chlamydiae
A type of bacteria.
122
Choroid
A layer of tissue largely made up of blood vessels that nourishes the retina; it lies between the sclera and the retina in the uveal tract.
123
Choroidal Neovascularization (CNV)
An abnormal collection of fragile new blood vessels growing in the choroid under the retina, responsible for hemorrhages and fluid leakage, which can lead to less of central vision when present in or near the macula.
124
Chronic
Refers to a condition that has persisted for some time.
125
Cilia
The eye lashes.
126
Ciliary Body
A band-like structure of muscle and secretory tissue that extends from the edge of the iris and encircles the inside of the sclera.
127
Ciliary Muscle
The muscle fibers in the ciliary body of the uveal tract that are involved with accommodation.
128
Ciliary Process
A finger-like extension of the ciliary body that produces aqueous humor.
129
Ciliary Spasm
A painful contraction of the ciliary muscle commonly caused by inflammation of the cornea or iris.
130
Circles of Eccentricity
A series of concentric circles at intervals of 10 degrees from the point of central visual fixation, providing coordinates for mapping the visual field.
131
Clamp
A surgical instrument used to compress of crush tissue, or temporarily hold surgical sutures or drapes.
132
Comitant
A strabismus that is the same in all fields of gaze.
133
Common-Vehicle Transmission
The form of infection transmission involving the transfer of infections microbes from one reservoir to many people.
134
Complication
A problem that occurs during or after medical or surgical treatment.
135
Computed Tomography
An x-ray technique that produces a very detailed image of a cross section of tissue. The image created is often called a CT-Scan.
136
Concave Lens
A piece of glass or plastic in which one or both surfaces are curved inward. Also called negative lens, or minus lens.
137
Concave Mirror Effect
The light effect of a retinoscope that produces convergent rays.
138
Condensing Lens
High plus (+14 to +40) handheld, to view the ocular fundus with the slit lamp or indirect ophthalmoscope.
139
Conductive Keratoplasty (CK)
A solid-state infrared laser refractive surgical procedure employed to create heat shrinkage of the peripheral corneal stroma thereby causing steepening of the cornea and reducing hyperopia.
140
Cone
The retinal photoreceptor largely responsible for sharp central vision and for color perception.
141
Confrontation Field Test
A test comparing the gross boundaries of the patient's field of vision with that of the examiner, who is presumed to have a normal field.
142
Congenital Glaucoma
A rare disease that occurs in infants; due to a malformation of the anterior chamber angle.
143
Congenital
Refers to any disease process or effect that is present from birth.
144
Conjunctiva
A thin, translucent mucous membrane extending from the outer corneal border over the globe and the inner surface of the eyelids.
145
Conjunctivitis
An inflammation of the conjunctiva that causes swelling of the small conjuctival vessels, making the eye appear red; it may be caused by bacterial or viral infection, allergy, or exposure to environmental agents such as chlorinated swimming pool water; also called Pink Eye.
146
Connective Tissue Disorder
Disorders characterized by immunologic and inflammatory changes in the connective tissues, also called "collagen vascular disease".
147
Consensual Pupillary Reaction
Reflexive reaction occurring when a light is directed into one pupil and the pupil of the opposite eye simultaneously and equally reacts.
148
Contact Lens-Induced Acute Red Eye (CLARE)
Dilation of blood vessels in the conjunctiva caused by contact lens irritation.
149
Contact Lens Peripheral Ulcers (CLPU)
Contact lens-induced noninfectious corneal ulcers outside the visual axis.
150
Contraindication
Any condition that renders a particular treatment, medication, or medical device inadvisable for a particular patient.
151
Contrast-Sensitivity Test
A procedure for determining the ability to distinguish between light and dark areas; useful in the diagnosis of cataract.
152
Converge
To come together.
153
Convex Lens
A piece of glass or plastic in which one or both surfaces are curved outward. Also called positive lens or plus lens.
154
Corneal Abrasion
A scratch or other defect in the superficial cornea (epithelium) caused by trauma.
155
Corneal Bullous Edema
Swelling of the corneal tissue severe enough to create blisters on the surface of the cornea and decreased vision. Also known as bullous keratopathy.
156
Corneal Edema
Swelling of the corneal tissue.
157
Corneal Endothelium
The fifth, innermost corneal layer that lies under Descemet's membrane; it is composed of a single layer of cells that maintains proper fluid balance within the cornea.
158
Corneal Epithelium
The outermost corneal layer, which lies above Bowman's membrane and provides defense against infection and injury.
159
Corneal Inflitrates
A discrete collection of inflammatory cells in the cornea.
160
Corneal Stroma
The third, or middle, corneal layer, which lies under Bowman's membrane and above Descement's membrane; it contributes to corneal rigidity.
161
Corneal Topography
A device that records the surface terrain of the cornea, used to detect aberrations of the contour, as well as regular and irregular astigmatism.
162
Corneal Ulcer
Pathologic condition involving a defect in the corneal surface and associated with inflammation: infectious ulcers are caused by a pathogenic microorganism.
163
Corneal Vascularization
Abnormal condition characterized by blood vessel growth in the cornea.
164
Cortex
a clear paste-like protein that surrounds the nucleus of the crystalline lens.
165
Corticosteroid
A drug, either a natural or a synthetic hormone, that combats an allergic or inflammatory condition. Also called steroid.
166
Cover-Uncover Test
A test performed by alternatively covering and uncovering each eye to determine if a patient's eyes are misaligned (this misalignment is called a tropia).
167
CPT Codes
Codes referring to Current Procedural Terminology published by the American Medical Association, which assigns a number to each procedure or test; updated regularly, the current version is CPT-5.
168
CR-39
Common plastic lens material with an index of refraction of 1.49.
169
Creutzfeldt-Jakob Disease
A rare, progressive encephalopathy associated with aberrant prion protein particles. May be transmitted via organ transplantation (including corneal transplants). "Mad cow" is the prion disease in cattle that when transmitted to humans causes a variant form of Creutzfeldt-Jakob disease.
170
Cross Cylinder
A special lens consisting of two cylinders of equal power, one minus, one plus, with their axes set at right angles to each other; useful for determining the axis and power of an astigmatic correction.
171
Cryopexy
Freezing by surgical means.
172
Curette
A scoop-shaped surgical tool used to scrape or remove unwanted tissue.
173
Cushing Disease
The disease complex caused by excessive secretion of the adrenal hormone cortisol. Predominantly found in women. Also known as hypercortisolism or Cushing syndrome.
174
Cycloplegia
Temporary paralysis of the ciliary muscle (preventing accommodation) and of the iris sphincter muscle (preventing constriction of the pupil).
175
Cycloplegic Refraction
Refractometry performed with the use of a drug that temporarily paralyzes the ciliary muscle, thus blocking accommodation.
176
Cylindrical Lens
A lens that has curvature in only one meridian.
177
Cytomegalovirus (CMV)
A member of the herpes virus family; caused CMV retinitis.
178
D segment
A portion of a bifocal or trifocal lens; so called because it is shaped like the capital letter D lying on its side.
179
Dacryocystitis
Inflammation of the lacrimal sac; usually caused by blockage or obstruction of the nasolacrimal duct.
180
Daily-wear Lenses
Rigid and soft contact lenses intended to be worn for fewer than 25 consecutive hours while awake.
181
Decibel
The unit (one tenth of a log) of measure of the brightness of a test object.
182
Decongestant
A substance that reduces congestion or swelling; decongestant eye drops constrict the superficial conjunctival blood vessels to reduce ocular redness.
183
Deep Scotoma
A visual field defect more serious than a shallow scotoma; appears as a "pit" or "well" in the island of vision.
184
Degenerative
Refers to any process in which the structure of function of body tissues gradually deteriorates.
185
Dendritic
Branch-shaped, such as the corneal ulcers seen after infection with the herpes simplex virus.
186
Density
Compactness, with reference to the structure of a particular substance.
187
Depression
The type of visual field defect that is like an indentation in the surface of the island of vision.
188
Descemet's Membrane
The fourth corneal layer that lies above the innermost endothelium and below the stroma; it contributes to corneal rigidity.
189
Developmental
Refers to any disease process or effect that results from faulty development or a structure or system.
190
Diabetes mellitus (DM)
A disorder of metabolism resulting from insufficient or absent insulin production from the pancreas; may also be due to insulin resistance.
191
Diabetic Retinopathy
Pathologic changes in the retina, usually occurs in patients with long-standing, poorly controlled diabetes.
192
Diagnosis
Determination of a medical condition.
193
Diffuse
To spread widely through a tissue.
194
Digital Corneal Reflex Pupillometer (DCRP)
An instrument that monocularly measures interpupilary distance.
195
Dilator Muscle
The iris muscle that dilates the pupil in reduced light conditions; fibers from this muscle stretch from the pupil to the outer boundaries of the iris.
196
Diopter
The unite of measure of the power of a lens.
197
Diplopia
Double vision.
198
Direct and Consensual Pupilary Reaction
The response of the pupils when light is shone in one eye: that eye constricts (direct reaction) and the other eye also constricts, even when light does not reach it (consensual reaction).
199
Direct Contact Transmission
The form of infection transmission between people usually requiring body contact, or contact with blood and bodily fluids.
200
Direct Ophthalmoscope
A handheld instrument with a light and mirror system that provides a 15-fold magnified monocular view of a narrow field of the ocular fundus.
201
Direct Pupillary Reaction
A reflexive reaction occurring when a light is directed into one pupil; the normal response is pupillary constriction.
202
Disease
Abnormal function of a body part or system due to hereditary, infectious, dietary, environmental, or other causes and characterized by a certain set of signs and symptoms.
203
Disinfection
The process of inactivating or eliminating pathogenic microorganisms.
204
Disposable Lenses
Soft contact lenses designed for both daily and extended wear, and then discarded after 1 to 4 weeks.
205
Distance Between Optical Centers (DBC)
The distance between the optical center of the right eyeglass lens and that of the left; corresponds to the patient's interpupillary distance.
206
Distometer
An instrument for measuring vertex distance.
207
Diverge
To spread apart.
208
Dk
A measurement of the amount of oxygen transmission through a contact lens; high Dk values indicate high oxygen permeability.
209
Double D Segment
A multifocal lens with the distance correction in the middle, a traditional near power D segment on the bottom, and an intermediate-power inverted D segment at the top.
210
Drusen
Light yellow deposits beneath the retinal pigment epithelium, visible on examination of the ocular fundus.
211
Ecchymosis
A visible collection of blood that has leaked from a vessel into the surrounding tissue, usually due to trauma; also called a bruise.
212
Ectasia
In the eye, refers to a thin, stretched sclera or cornea. A corneal ectasia is thinning with protrusion.
213
Ectropion
A condition in which the eyelid margin is everted (turned) outward from the globe; may be degeneration of or damage to the eyelid tissues.
214
Edema
Swelling caused by the abnormal presence of fluid in the tissues.
215
Electromagnetic Radiation
Radiation produced through the combination of electoral and magnetic forces; includes rays from the shortest to longest wavelengths, both visible and invisible.
216
Emergency
A medical situation that requires immediate attention.
217
Emmetropia
The refractive state of an eye that is able to focus correctly without the need for optical lenses.
218
Emphysema
Air trapped in an organ or tissue.
219
Empiric Treatment
The institution of medical treatment based on probable cause, before test results or other time-consuming procedures confirm a diagnosis.
220
Endrocrime System
The body system consisting of multiple glands that produce chemicals called hormones, which regulate various bodily functions.
221
Endophthalmitis
A serious inflammation of the intraocular tissues including the vitreous; may be due to bacterial or fungal infection, allergy, or chemical toxicity.
222
Entropion
A condition in which the upper or lower lid margin is turned inward.
223
Enzyme Cleaner
A specially designed detergent for removing protein deposits from contact lenses.
224
Enzymes
Substances produced by cells to accelerate or promote a biochemical reaction.
225
Epiphora
Excessive tearing.
226
Episcleral Blood Vessels
Fine blood vessels on the surface of the sclera and under the conjunctiva.
227
Episcleritis
Inflammation of the surface layer of the sclera.
228
Eso Deviation
The inward deviation of the eye.
229
Esophoria
The inward deviation of the eye that is present only when one eye is covered.
230
Esotropia
The inward deviation of the eye in which the eyes are misaligned even when covered.
231
Etiology
Literally, the study of the causes of disease; informally, the causes themselves.
232
Excimer Laser
An ultraviolet laser instrument that vaporizes or ablates tissue.
233
Executive
Refers to a bifocal lens consisting of a top distance band and a bottom near band that divide the entire width of the lens into two parts.
234
Exo Deviation
The outward deviation of the eye.
235
Exophoria
The outward deviation of the eye that is present only when one eye is covered.
236
Exophthalmeter
An instrument that measures the prominence of the eyeball in relation to the bony orbital rim surrounding it.
237
Exophthalmometry
The measurement of the prominence of the eyeball in relation to the bony orbital rim surrounding it.
238
Exotropia
The outward deviation of the eye in which the eyes are misaligned even when uncovered.
239
Exposure Keratopathy
The pathologic change that occurs to the cornea when it is partially or completely unprotected by the eyelids for extended periods of time.
240
Extended-wear Lenses
Soft contact lenses that are approved for overnight wear for up to 7 days.
241
External Hordeolum
An infection or inflammation of a Zeis gland located on the eyelid margin in a lash follicle.
242
Extraocular Muscles
The 6 muscles that attach to the outside of the globe and control its movements.
243
Eyelid
The complex moveable cover of the out proportion of the eyeball. The eyelids consist of an upper and lower component of skin, tarsus, delicate muscles, eyelashes, glands, and conjunctiva.
244
15-hue Test
A test that can identify color vision deficits by asking the patient to arrange 15 pastel colored ships of similar brightness but subtly different hues in a related color sequence. Also called Farnsworth-Munsell D-15 test.
245
Anterior Chamber Angle
The junction of the cornea and the iris, from which aqueous humor leaves the eye. Also called the filtration angle.
246
Fixate
To gaze steadily at something.
247
Flashlight Test
A simple test for estimating the depth of the anterior chamber and the chamber angle.
248
Floaters
Small particles of dead cells or other debris that become suspended in the vitreous, or particles of the vitreous itself that degenerate in the normal aging process; they cast shadows on the retina and appear as spots or cobwebs.
249
Fluorescein
A dye solution used in applanation tonometry; also used intravenously in fluorescein angiography.
250
Fluorescein Angiography
Diagnostic photography of retinal vessels that utilizes an intravenous injection of fluorescein dye.
251
Focal Defect
The type of visual field defect in which a local "pit" or "well" in the field of vision occurs.
252
Focal Length
The distance between the focal point and the lens.
253
Focal Point
The point somewhere along the principle axis at which the paraxial rays from a distant source are refracted by a lens and converge in the case of a convex lens and diverge in the case of a concave lens.
254
Foreign Body Sensation
A feeling of eye irritation or grittiness.
255
Fornix
The loose pocket of conjunctival tissue where the palebral and bulbar portions of the conjunctiva meet in the recess of the upper and lower lids. Also called the cul-de-sac.
256
Fovea
The center of the macula.
257
Frequency-Doubling Technology (FDT)
A perimetry examination using alternating flickers of black and white striated stimuli into the eye at a very high frequency. This test uses an illusion created by the stimuli to detect visual field defects.
258
Functional Vision
An individual's subjective perception of his or her vision during activities of daily living.
259
Fundus
A collective term for the retina, optic disc, and macula.
260
Funduscopic Examination
Examination of the vitreous and fundus by ophthalmoscope.
261
Fuduscopic Lens
High plus (+60, +70, and +90) noncontact lenses used in conjunction with the slit lamp for stereoscopic observation of the fundus.
262
Fungus
A multicelled microorganism that differs from a bacterium in that it has a more complex structure; includes yeasts and molds. Some can live inside the boy and cause infection.
263
Fusion
The blending by the brain of the separate images received by the two eyes so that a single view is perceived even when the eyes move.
264
Ganglion Cell
The type of retinal cell that accepts electric (nerve) impulses from the bipolar cells and sends the impulses via axons through the optic disc to the brain.
265
Gel
Thick (viscous) liquid used as a vehicle to deliver a drug topically.
266
Generalized Defect
The type of visual field defect in which the field of vision shrinks symmetrically or is depressed evenly across the entire retina.
267
Genetic
Refers to a train that is inherited from either or both parents.
268
Geneva Lens Clock
An instrument for measuring the base curse of an eyeglass.
269
Genus
A category of biologic classification ranking immediately higher than the species; the general name for a type of organism.
270
Geometric Optics
The area of optics that deals with the transmission of light as rays and is concerned with the effect of lenses on light on the production of images.
271
Germicide
A chemical that kills germs.
272
Giant Papillary Conjunctivitis (GPC)
Inflammation of the palpebral conjunctiva, characterized by large raised bumps.
273
Gimbal
The ring-like frame in the lensmeter.
274
Glare
A scattering of a single bright light source across the visual field that interferes with one's sight and markedly reduces the quality of the image received by the retina.
275
Glare Testing
A procedure of assessing a patient's vision in the presence of a bright light source to determine whether sensitivity to glare is contributing to visual symptoms.
276
Glaucoma
An eye disease in which the intraocular pressure is high enough to cause damage to the optic nerve, resulting in visual loss; caused by impaired drainage of the aqueous fluid out of the eye.
277
Globe
The eye, without its surrounding structures. Also called eyeball.
278
Goblet Cell
The type of cell in the conjunctiva that produces the sticky fluid (mucin) the comprises the innermost tear-film layer.
279
Goldmann Applanation Tonometer
A tonometer that is attached to a biomicroscope (slit lamp) that measures intraocular pressure by determining how much force is needed to flatten the central cornea.
280
Goldmann Goniolens
A mirrored contact lens used in gonioscopy; reflects an image of the anterior chamber angle, viewed with the aid of a slit lamp.
281
Goldmann Perimeter
A bow-like instrument for testing visual fields in which targets (lights) of different sizes and intensities are projected onto a standardized background illumination.
282
Gonioscopy
A method of viewing the chamber angle through a special contact lens placed on the anesthetized eye.
283
Gram Staining
The procedure for identifying bacteria and certain other microbes according to their reaction to a dye - either gram-positive or gram-negative.
284
Granuloma
A firm collection of a specific kind of inflammatory cell.
285
Granulomatous
A term used to describe a mass lesion resembling a granuloma.
286
Graves Disease
A condition of unknown origin that involves the thyroid glad and causes the soft tissues surrounding the glove to swell.
287
Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA)
A federal regulation that mandates how medical practices secure and transmit a patient's medical information.
288
Heidelberg Retinal Tomograph (HRT)
An instrument used for analysis of the optic nerve head and other posterior structures by producing a topographic image of the optic nerve head, vitreoretinal interface, and macula.
289
Hemaniopia
The type of visual field defect in which the right or left half of the field in one eye is missing.
290
Hemorrhage
Rapid loss of a large amount of blood from a damaged blood vessel.
291
Hemostasis
The control of bleeding.
292
Herpes Simplex Virus
In ophthalmology, a type of virus that infects the cornea, producing branch-like ulcers (dendritic keratitis).
293
Herpes Simplex Virus Type 1 (HSV-1)
A herpesvirus that causes recurrent fever blisters on the lips and mouth and, if introduced to the eye, causes keratitis.
294
Herpes Simplex Virus Type 2 (HSV-2)
Similar to HSV-1, except that it more commonly infects the genital region and is spread by sexual contact.
295
Herpesvirus
A family of viruses.
296
History of Present Illness
The expansion of a patient's chief complaint; includes information about the onset, duration, characteristics, and aggravating or alleviating factors related to the present illness.
297
Homonymous Hemianopia
The type of visual field defect in which the right or left half of the field in both eyes is missing.
298
Horizontal and Vertical Meridians
The radial meridians that divide the visual field into quarters.
299
Hormones
Regulating substances produced by various endocrine glands (such as the thyroid, pituitary, and adrenal), and transported by the blood to targeted organs to initiate a specific reaction or effect.
300
Host
The animal or plant from which a microbe gains nutrients and the conditions necessary for its survival and reproduction.
301
Hruby Lens
A noncontact lens attached to the slit lamp; useful for examining the optic nerve head and small areas of the posterior retina and vitreous.
302
Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV)
A retrovirus that causes acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS), a disorder of the immune system that increases the patient's susceptibility to infections such as cytomegalovirus (CMV) retinitis.
303
Hydrophilic
Refers to the property of combining with, or attracting water.
304
Hydrophobic
Refers to the property of resisting or repelling water.
305
Hyperopia
Farsightedness. If the eye is too short for its optical system the condition if called axial hyperopia. If the refractive power is insufficient for the length of the eye the condition is called refractive hyperopia.
306
Hyphema
The pooling of blood in the anterior chamber as a result of trauma or certain diseases.
307
Hyperthyroidism
The disease complex caused by excessive secretion of thyroid hormone.
308
Hypoglycemia
Low blood sugar level, common among patients with diabetes.
309
Hypopyon
The accumulation of pus (white blood cells) in the anterior chamber.
310
Hypoxia
A loss of oxygen.
311
ICD codes
Code of the International Classification of Diseases published by the American Medical Association, a system that assigns a number to each disease or diagnosis; updated regularly, the current version is ICD-10.
312
Idiopathic
Of unknown cause.
313
Immune Reaction
The body's response to infection, in which antibodies are manufactured to neutralize the infecting microorganism and perhaps prevent recurrence of the infection.
314
Immunosuppressed
Lacking the ability to produce a normal immune response to fight infection by bacteria, fungi, or viruses. Also called immunocompromised.
315
Incise
To make a deliberate and controlled cut into body tissue.
316
Incision
A cut produced by a sharp instrument.
317
Indentation
A form of tonometry in which the amount of corneal indentation produced by a fixed weight is measured.
318
Indirect Ophthalomoscope
An instrument with a light and mirror system that provides a binocular and wide view of the ocular fundus.
319
Indirect-Contact Transmission
The form of infection transmission involving an intermediate, inanimate object.
320
Indocyanine Green
A dye solution that is used intravenously in indocyanine angiography to study choroidal circulation and in situations where an overlying hemorrhage or exudate obscures the visibility of choroidal vessels.
321
Infection
The invasion and multiplication of harmful microorganisms in the body tissues: a local bacterial or fungal infection begins in the tissues immediately surrounding the microorganism's point of entry; if unchecked, the infection may spread to surrounding tissues, thereby becoming diffuse.
322
Infectious Corneal Ulcer
An open lesion on the corneal surface caused by a pathogenic microorganism.
323
Inferior Oblique Muscle
Extraocular Muscle attached to the lower, outer side of the glode; 3 functions are to move the eye upward and outward, and to rotate the eye outward.
324
Inferior Rectus Muscle
Extraocular muscle attached to the underside of the globe; 3 functions are to move the eye downward and inward toward the nose (adduction) and rotate the eye outward.
325
Inflammation
A local protective tissue response to infection, injury, or irritation in which specialized cells move to the affected area; characterized by redness, swelling, warmth, and pain in the inflamed area.
326
Informed Consent
The process by which a patient receives information from the physician about the risks, benefits, and alternatives of a proposed procedure in order to decide whether or not to have the procedure or treatment.
327
Injection
1. ) The delivery system by which a drug is injected into the body with a hypodermic needle.
2. ) Tissue redness and swelling caused by dilated blood vessels usually as a result of inflammation or infection.
328
Injury
Damage to, or destruction of cells that compose a tissue, organ, or system.
329
Insert
The delivery system by which a drug-containing wafer is placed on the conjunctiva under the upper or lower eyelid; releases the drug slowly and steadily over a period of time.
330
Insulin
A hormone of the body that regulates sugar metabolism..
331
Interferometer
A laser instrument for determining visual acuity in the presence of an opacity, such as a cataract.
332
Internal Hordeolum
An acute infection of a meibomian glad in the eyelid; which chronic, the condition is called a chalazion.
333
Interpupilary Distance (IPD or PD)
The distance from the center of the pupil of one eye to the center of the pupil of the other eye.
334
Intracorneal Ring Segment
A surgical technique of placing thin plastic half-circle ring segments in the mid-peripheral cornea to flatten the curvature of the central cornea and reduce myopia. As known as intrastromal corneal ring segment.
335
Intracranial
The cavity in the skull that houses the brain.
336
Intraocular Pressure (IOP)
Fluid pressure within the eye.
337
Invisible Bifocal
A bifocal lens with a softened or blended transitional zone between the segment, also called seamless bifocal or blended bifocal.
338
Iridotomy
A type of laser glaucoma surgery in which an opening is made in the iris to allow fluid to drain from the posterior chamber into the anterior chamber.
339
Iritis
Inflammation of the iris.
340
Irregular Astigmatism
The less common form of astigmatism, in which the corneal surface loses its uniformity secondary to scarring or other pathology.
341
Ischemia
A condition in which the supply of blood to a part of the body is severely reduced.
342
Isopter
In visual field tests, a long connecting the points denoting areas of equal sensitivity to a stimulus; similar to contour lines denoting equal elevations of a topographic map.
343
Keratitis
Inflammation of the cornea.
344
Keratoconjunctivitis Sicca
Inflammation of the cornea and conjunctiva caused by dry eyes.
345
Keratoconus
A rare degenerative corneal disease in which the center of the cornea thins and assumes the shape of a cone, seriously affecting vision.
346
Keratometer
An instrument used to measure corneal curvature.
347
Kinetic Perimetry
The type of perimetry that uses a moving test object of a predetermined size and brightness.
348
Koeppe Lens
A high plus contact lens used in gonioscopy to examine the angle structures directly with a handheld light source and microscope.
349
Laceration
A traumatic cut
350
Lacrimal Apparatus
The structures for tear production and drainage.
351
Lacrimal Canaliculus
One of two small channels (plural: canaliculi) that starts at the punctum in the upper or lower eyelide and drains tears from the surface of the eye to the lacrimal sac.
352
Lacrimal Gland
The glad that produces the watery substance making up the middle layer or the tear film; located in the lateral part of the upper lid.
353
Lacrimal Sac
The sac that holds tears after they pass through the canaliculi, which empty through the nasolacrimal duct into the nasal cavity.
354
Lacrimal Probe
An instrument for exploring and clearing an obstruction of the tear duct.
355
Lacrimal Set
A group of instruments for identifying and clearing an obstruction of the tear duct.
356
Lagophthalmos
A condition in which the globe is not completely covered when the eyelids are closed; may be caused by facial-nerve paralysis or by an enlarged or protruding eye.
357
Laser Assisted In Situ Keratomileusis (LASIK)
A refractive laser procedure using a microkeratome or femtosecond laser keratome to raise a corneal flap followed by ablation of the stromal bed with an excimer laser.
358
Laser Subepithelial Keratomileusis (LASEK)
A refractive laser procedure performed after temporary removal of the surface epithelium and basement membrane from the corneal stroma and replacing it after the laser ablation.
359
Lateral Geniculate Body
The part of the brain along the visual pathway where optic fibers synapse to the optic radiations and transmit visual impulses.
360
Lateral Rectus Muscle
Extraocular muscle attached to the outer (temporal) side of the globe; moves the eye outward toward the ear (abduction).
361
Legal Blindness
A best-corrected visual acuity of 20/200 or less or a visual field reduced to 20 degrees or less in the better-seeing eye.
362
Lens
Part of the optical focusing system of the eye, immediately behind the iris. Also called the crystalline lens.
363
Lenmeter
An instrument for measuring the prescription of eyeglass lenses or the power of rigid contact lenses. Also called lensometer.
364
Lensometry
The measurement of certain qualities of lenses by use of a lensmeter.
365
Lesion
An abnormal tissue or break in a normal tissue.
366
Levator Palpebrae
The muscle attached to the tarsal plate in the middle layer of the upper eyelids that raises the eyelid when it contracts.
367
Limbus
The junction between the sclera and the cornea.
368
Lissamine Green
A dye solution that is used topically on the cornea for diagnostic purposes to detect dry eye disease.
369
MacKay-Marg Tonometer
An electronic tonometer that measures intraocular pressure.
370
Macula
The specialized area of the retina close to the center of the back of the eye that provides detailed central vision.
371
Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI)
A multisliced imaging technique utilizing a powerful magnetic field.
372
Malignant
Term used to describe a condition that tends to become worse and to cause severe problems or death; malignant myopia refers to an unusually severe myopia that causes other progressive problems; a malignant skin lesion is one that is cancerous with the potential to spread.
373
Manifest Refraction
Refractometry performed without the use of cycloplegic drugs.
374
Media Opacities
The general term used to describe a variety of conditions that cloud, obscure, or otherwise affect the ocular media, and, ultimately, may disrupt vision.
375
Medial Rectus Muscle
Extraocular muscle attached to the inner (nasal) side of the globe; function is to move the eye inward toward the nose (adduction).
376
Meibomian Gland
Multiple specialized glands in the upper and lower eyelids that secrete the oily part of the tear film.
377
Meridian
Geometric plane; used to indicate maximum and minimum corneal curvature.
378
Mesopic Vision
Referring to the eyesight under dim lighting conditions.
379
Metabolism
The physical and chemical processes by which the body converts food into energy and new body tissues.
380
Metastasis
The process by which cancerous tumor cells move from the site of the original growth to other, distant areas of the body, forming new tumors; the verb form is metastasize.
381
Metastasize
The transfer of disease from one organ or part to another not directly connected, forming a new distant location of that disease.
382
Microkeratome
A miniature surgical mechanical knife that can cut a thin corneal flap; used in conjunction with laser refractive surgery such as LASIK.
383
Microorganism
An extremely small life form invisible to the unaided eye. Also called microbe.
384
Miotic
A drug that causes the iris sphincter muscle to contract, producing miosis (pupillary constriction), which reduces the amount of light entering the eye.
385
Mires
The perpendicular crossed lines in a lensmeter or the semicircular lines in a tonometer - targets that, when aligned, aid in the acquisition of accurate measurements.
386
Mirror Effect
Reflection of an image from a clear, smooth, or polished surface.
387
Mold
A form of fungus that produces a woolly, fluffy, or powdery growth.
388
Monovision
An artificially produced system creating visual clarity for near in one eye and for distance in the other eye. Can be achieved through surgical means or external lenses.
389
Mucinous
Sticky.
390
Mucopurulent Discharge
A thick fluid containing mucus and pus; symptomatic of bacterial infection.
391
Muscle Balance
The term that describes the alignment of the extraocular muscles; assessing ocular alignment involves several procedures including the cover test, alternate cover test, and others.
392
Mydriasis
Increase in pupil size (dilation) that occurs artificially with application of certain drugs or naturally in dim light.
393
Mydriatic
A drug that dilates the pupil by causing the iris dilator muscle to contract and/or by paralyzing the iris sphincter muscle.
394
Myopia
Nearsightedness. If the eye is too long for its optical system, the condition is called axial myopia. If the refractive power is excessive for the length of the eye the condition is called refractive myopia.
395
Nasal Step
The type of visual defect that, when plotted, appears as a step-like loss of vision at the outer limit of the nasal field.
396
Nasolacrimal Duct
The duct through which tears pass from the lacrimal sac into the nasal cavity.
397
Near Visual Acuity.
The measurement of the ability to see clearly at a normal reading distance.
398
Neoplasm
A new growth of different or abnormal tissue, such as a tumor or wart.
399
Neovascularization
The abnormal growth of new blood vessels.
400
Nervous System
The body system consisting of the brain, spinal cord, and periphery nerves.
401
Neutralization Point
The lens power that is the approximate correction for a refractive error.
402
Nevi
Literally, freckles; common tumors involving the retina, bulbar conjunctiva, and skin, appearing as yellowish pink or brown spots.
403
Noncomitant
A strabismus that has a different deviation I various gaze directions typically caused by either restriction or paralysis of extraocular muscles.
404
Nystagmus
A condition in which the eyes continually shift in a rhythmic, side-to-side, up-and-down, or rotary motion and then snap back to the normal position.
405
Occluded
Totally obstructed or blocked.
406
Occlusion
Blockage.
407
Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA)
A federal agency mandated to protect the health and safety of individuals in the workplace.
408
Ocular Histoplasmosis
Retinal changes presumed to be caused by the microorganism Histoplasma with some lesions affecting the macula, resulting in loss of central vision.
409
Ocular Lubricant
A medication that helps maintain an adequate tear-film balance or keeps the external eye moist.
410
Ocular Media
The transparent optical structures that transmit light: cornea, aqueous, lens, and vitreous.
411
Oculomotor Nerve
The third cranial nerve, which supplies the impulses that activate the superior, medial, and inferior rectus muscles, the inferior oblique muscle, and the levitator palpebrae.
412
OD (Oculus Dexter)
Latin for right eye.
413
Ointment or Gel
The form of a drug in which the drug is dissolved or suspended in a greasy vehicle or thickened water-soluble matrix.
414
Opacification
Clouding of a structure, as in the normally clear ocular media, most often seen in the cornea or lens; lenticular opacification (cataract) occurs in many people over age 65.
415
Opaque
Refers to a substance that completely blocks light.
416
Ophthalmalia Neonatorum
Conjunctivitis in the newborn.
417
Ophthalmic Registered Nurse
A registered nurse with additional experience, education, and/or training in caring for patients with ophthalmic problems.
418
Ophthalmologist
A medical doctor (MD or DO) who specializes in the prevention, diagnosis, and medical as well as surgical treatment of vision problems and diseases of the eye.
419
Ophthalmology
The medical and surgical specialty concerned with the eye and its surrounding structures, their proper function, disorders, and all aspects of vision.
420
Ophthalmoscope
An instrument for examining directly or indirectly the vitreous and fundus.
421
Optical Center
The point of optimal vision; the single point of a lens through which light may pass without being bent or changed (i.e. refracted).
422
Optical Coherence Tomography (OCT)
A system used for analysis of the optic nerve head and retinal nerve fiber layer as well as the macular tissue layers by producing topographic images.
423
Optical Density
A lens property that increases the effectiveness to bend light.
424
Optical Pachymeter
A device for measuring corneal thickness using an optical system.
425
Optical Zone
The major or central focusing area of the cornea or any lens.
426
Optic Chiasm
The point behind the eyes in the brain where the 2 optic nerves merge and the axon fibers from the nasal retina of each eye cross to the opposite side.
427
Optic Disc
The location where the central retinal artery enters and the central retinal vein, as well as the nerve fibers, exit. Also called Optic Nerve Head.
428
Optic Nerve
The nerve that carries electric impulses to the brain's visual cortex, where they are integrated to produce the sensation of sight.
429
Optic Neuritis
Inflammation of the optic nerve; can produce a sudden, but reversible, loss of sight.
430
Optic Radiation
The nerve fibers that transmit visual information from the lateral geniculate body to the visual cortex.
431
Optic Tract
The part of the brain between the optic chiasm and the lateral geniculate body.
432
Oral Drug Delivery
The delivery system by which a drug is taken by mouth.
433
Oral
Medications taken by mouth.
434
Orbicularis Oculi
The circular muscle, located in the middle layer of the eyelids that closes the eye when it contracts, as in winking.
435
Orbit
The bony cavity in the skull that houses the globe, extraocular muscles, blood vessels, and nerves. Also called Socket.
436
Orbital Cellulitis
A diffuse infection of tissues in the orbit, causing grossly swollen eyelids and red eye, sometimes without proptosis.
437
Organic Solvents
Liquid substances that are derived from raw petroleum and from other volatile liquid agents.
438
Orthophoric
Refers to the absence of strabismic deviation; normal.
439
OS (Oculus Sinister)
Latin for left eye.
440
Oscilloscope
An instrument box with a TV-type screen that displays the shape of an electric current or ultrasonic wave as seen with ultrasonography.
441
OU (Oculus Uterque)
Latin for each eye.
442
Oxygen Permeable (Dk)
The ability of a contact lens to transmit oxygen through its material.
443
Pachymeter
An instrument that measures the distance between the corneal epithelium and the corneal endothelium (corneal thickness). Sometimes spelled Pachometer.
444
Pachymetry
The measurement of corneal thickness by the use of a pachymeter. Sometimes spelled Pachometry.
445
Palpitation
Mechanical examination by touch.
446
Palpebral Conjunctiva
The portion of the conjunctiva that lines the inner eyelids.
447
Palpebral Fissure
The almond-shaped opening between the upper and lower eyelids.
448
Palsy
Paralysis or weakness of muscle function, usually due to nerve damage.
449
Pantoscopic Angle
The angle of an eyeglass frame by which the frame front deviates from the vertical plane where the glasses are worn.
450
Papilledema
A swelling of the optic disk with engorged blood vessels; caused by increased fluid pressure within the skull.
451
Papoose Board
A padded board with Velcro straps; used for immobilizing an infant during an ophthalmic evaluation.
452
Paracentral Scotoma
A relatively blind area in the visual field, smaller than a Bjerrum Scotoma, near the fixation point above or below the horizontal axis.
453
Parallax
An optical distortion that occurs when the measurer's line of light is not parallel to that of the patient's.
454
Parallel
Refers to rays that travel side by side in the same direction, neither diverging or converging.
455
Paralytic Strabismus
A misalignment of the eyes when one or more extraocular muscles lose their nerve function (paralysis).
456
Paraxial Rays
Light rays that enter a lens system away from the center.
457
Pathologic
Abnormal or diseased.
458
Perimetry
The measurement of the expanse and sensitivity of peripheral vision and the visual field to pinpoint possible defects.
459
Peripheral Vision
The visual perception of objects and space that surround the direct line of sight.
460
Perkins Tonometer
A handheld applanation tonometer.
461
Phakic
An eye with an intact natural crystalline lens.
462
Phakic IOL
An intraocular lens surgically implanted in the anterior or posterior chamber of the eye without removing the natural crystalline lens; usually performed to correct high myopia.
463
Pharmacology
The study of medicine use and actions of drugs (medications).
464
Phenol Red Thread Tear Test
A test that aids in the diagnosis of dry eyes and uses cotton threads treated with a pH indicator to measure the patient's tear production.
465
Phoria
A tendency toward ocular misalignment that is held in check by the fusional effort of the extraocular muscles.
466
Photochromic
Refers to a lens specially manufactured to be sensitive to ultraviolet light, so that it darkens in sunlight and lightens when not in sunlight.
467
Photocoalgulation
Use of a xenon or laser light mean to destroy tissue; among other uses, it is often used to treat abnormal leaking blood vessels (neovascularization) or to "weld" a retinal tear.
468
Photodynamic Therapy (PDT)
A treatment intended to reduce further vision loss from the "wet" form of age-related macular degeneration; the patient receives an intravenous injection (injection into a vein) of a light-sensitive substance, verteporfin (Visudyne), followed by "cold" laser stimulation of the verteporfin in the area of choroidal neovascularization, causing selective damage to the abnormal tissue.
469
Photopic Vision
Referring to eye sight under daylight conditions.
470
Photo Receptor
A light-sensitive cell.
471
Photorefractive Keratectomy (PRK)
A refractive surgical procedure that employs the excimer laser to reshape the corneal curvature after removing the epithelium.
472
Phototherapeutic Keratectomy (PTK)
An excimer laser is employed to ablate the anterior corneal surface to correct irregular astigmatism, scarring, or other superficial abnormalities.
473
Physical Optics
The study of optics that describes the nature of light in terms of its wave properties.
474
Physiologic Blind Spot
The sightless "hole" in the normal visual field that corresponds to the optic disc where there are no photoreceptors.
475
Physiology
Literally, the study of the functions of the human body; refers to the processes by which an organism, cell, or anatomic structure functions.
476
Pigment Epithelium
The outer layer of the retina; lies against the choroid.
477
Pinguecula
A thickened, benign, yellow-ish area of the bulbar conjunctiva on the temporal or nasal side of the cornea in the exposed portion of the eyeball. May precede a pterygium.
478
Pinhole Occluder
The handheld device that completely covers one eye and allows the other to view a chart through a tiny central opening; often used to confirm a diagnosis of refractive error.
479
Placido Disk
A flat disk with alternating black and white rings encircling a small central aperture, used in evaluating the regularity of the anterior curvature of the cornea. With a normal corneal curvature, the rings are reflected without distortion.
480
Plane
Flat.
481
Planned-replacement Lenses
Contact lenses that are designed to be replaced on a regular schedule determined by the ophthalmologist according to patient wearing characteristics and other factors.
482
Plano Lens
A lens without any ability to bend light rays; a zero power lens.
483
Plano Mirror Effect
The flat lighting effect of a retinoscope that produces slightly divergent rays.
484
Pledget
A small tuft of cotton or other absorbent material that may be soaked with a liquid medication for a more prolonged application time to the surface of the eye; often used with topical anesthetic agents to achieve optimal anesthesia prior to minor surgical procedures.
485
Pneumatonometer
An instrument that uses compressed air and a piston-like wand to applanate the surface of the eyeball and measure intraocular pressure.
486
Pneumatoretinopexy
A surgical procedure for correcting retinal detachment by injecting gas into the eye.
487
Polarized
A specialized lens that reduces glare from a horizontal reflecting surfaces and protects against UV rays.
488
Polycarbonate
A common plastic safety lens material that is resistant to shattering.
489
Polymethylmethacrylate (PMMA) lenses
Contact lenses that provide oxygen by means of a tear pump only; no oxygen or carbon dioxide diffuses through the lens.
490
Posterior
Toward the back.
491
Posterior Chamber
The space between the back of the iris and the front of the vitreous; the crystalline lens is suspended in this chamber, which is filled with aqueous fluid.
492
Posterior Segment
The rear portion of the eye; includes the vitreous and the retina.
493
Posterior Vitreous Detachment
A separation of the posterior vitreous surface from the underlying retina that often occurs when the vitreous liquefies during aging, but may also be caused by certain diseases or trauma; symptoms may include increased floaters and/or photopsia (light flashes).
494
Potential Acuity Meter
A device for determining visual acuity in the presence of media opacities.
495
Prepping
Short for preparing; routines for cleansing a patient's surgical site prior to surgery.
496
Presbyopia
The progressive loss of the accommodative ability of the lens, due to natural process of aging.
497
Primary Angle-Closure Glaucoma
A form of glaucoma associated with a structural abnormality of the eye resulting in a shallow anterior chamber angle; also as the lens increases in size with aging, it blocks the flow of aqueous through the pupil, gradually causing the iris to bow forward until its outer edge blocks the aqueous outflow channels (pupillary block).
498
Primary Open-Angle Glaucoma
A form of glaucoma in which the pressure inside the eye is elevated because of increased resistance to aqueous drainage in the outflow channels; accounts for 60% - 90% of all adult glaucoma.
499
Principal Axis
The pathway of a light ray that strikes the center of a lens of any shape and passes undeviated through the lens material.
500
Principal Meridians
The meridians of maximum and minimum curvature.
501
Prions
Extremely small pathologic protein elements responsible for brain disorders that occur in certain animals (e.g. bovine spongiform encephalitis, or "mad cow disease") and humans (e.g. variant Creutzfeldt-Jakob disease).
502
Prism and Alternative Cover Test
A test to measure the quantity of ocular misalignment using prisms and an occluder.
503
Prism
A triangular piece of glass or plastic with flat sides, an apex and a base.
504
Prism Diopter
The unit of measure of the refractive power of a prism.
505
Prismatic Effect
An optical distortion in which images are displaced from their normal position; can occur if the distance between optical centers (DBC) does not correspond to the interpupillary distance.
506
Prognosis
Prediction of the outcome of a medical condition.
507
Progressive Addition Multifocals
A spectacle lens with multiple areas of different focal points with no discrete visible lines dividing the various segments; rather, the optical power is added progressively in a transitional manner. Also called Progressive Add Multifocals.
508
Proliferative Diabetic Retinopathy
Abnormal changes in the retina due to poorly controlled diabetes mellitus, manifested by the presence of hemorrhages, exudates, microaneurysms, and neovascularization. This is a more advanced stage of diabetic retinopathy.
509
Proptosis
A condition characterized by a protruding eyeball; caused by an increase in volume of the orbital contents. Also called exophthalmos.
510
Proteolytic
Capable of dissolving protein.
511
Protozoan
A large, single-celled microbe found in fresh and salt water, soil, plants, insects, and animals.
512
Pseudoisochromatic Color Plates
A book of plates that display patterns of colored and gray dots; used for evaluated color vision.
513
Pseudophakia
The use of an intraocular lense to correct the vision of an aphakic patient.
514
Pterygium
A lesion of hypertrophied tissue that extends from the medial canthus onto the cornea.
515
Ptosis
Drooping of the upper eyelid most commonly caused by the levator muscle's inability to lift the eyelid to its full extent. May be congenital or acquired.
516
Punctum
The tiny opening on the upper eyelid margin (upper punctum) and lower eyelid margin (lower punctum) near the nose, through which tears pass.
517
Punctum Dilator
Part of the lacrimal set; the instrument used for enlarging the punctum.
518
Pupillometry
The measurement of pupillary diameters.
519
Quadrant
One of the 4 quarters of the visual field: upper left, upper right, lower left, and lower right.
520
Radial Keratotomy
A refractive surgical procedure that employs anterior radial incisions in the cornea to flatten its curvature and reduce myopia.
521
Radial Meridians
Dividing sections radiating from the point of central fixation on a visual field chart.
522
Reagent
A special solution designed to react with a specific type of microorganism or chemical; used in microbiologic testing.
523
Refinement
The subjective step of refractometry, requiring patient participation and responses, which confirms the information produced by retinoscopy. Also called Subjective Refractometry and Manifest Refractometry.
524
Refracted
Refers to the change in directions of a light ray when it passes from one medium to another.
525
Refraction
1. In physics, the bending of a light ray as it passes through substances of different densities.
2. In eye care, the process of measuring a patient's refractive error and the clinical judgment to determine the optical correction needed.
526
Refractive Error
A nonpathologic deficiency in the eye's optical system.
527
Refractive Index
The ratio of the speed of light in a vacuum to its speed through a specific substance.
528
Refractive State
The relative ability of the refractive components of the eye to bring objects into focus on the retina.
529
Refractive Surgery
A type of corneal surgery that modifies the shape of the cornea to correct some type of myopia, hyperopia, and astigmatism.
530
Refractometry
The measurement of refractive error with a variety of instruments and techniques.
531
Refractor
An instrument for determining a corrective lens prescription; stores a range of trial lenses that can be dialed into position, also called phoropter or Phoroptor (brand name).
532
Regular Astigmatism
The most common form of astigmatism, in which the cornea resembles a football standing on one end or on its side.
533
Reservoir
An animate or inanimate object that provides a microorganism the means of survival and opportunity for transmission.
534
Respiratory System
The structures primarily involved in exchanging oxygen and carbon dioxide; includes the nasal passages, trachea, bronchi, and lungs.
535
Restrictive Strabismus
An ocular misalignment caused by an extraocular muscle that is hindered or physically prevented from moving the eye.
536
Retina
The inner lining of the posterior of the eyeball; consists of a layer of light-sensitive cells that convert images from the optical system into electric impulses sent along the optic nerve for transmission to the brain.
537
Retinal Detachment
The separation of the sensory layer from the pigment layer of the retina; may be abbreviated RD. There are 3 causes: rhematogenous (tear or hole), traction (pulling off by scar tissue), and exudative (fluid accumulation).
538
Retinal Edema (Berlin's Edema)
Swelling of the retina caused by blunt trauma to the retinal structures that results in release of fluid into the tissues.
539
Retinal Tear
A break in the retina. It can develop into a detachment.
540
Retinitis Pigmentosa
A hereditary, progressive retinal degeneration that may lead to blindness.
541
Retinoscope
A handheld instrument for measuring refractive error; consists of a light source and a viewing component. It is used with a phoropter or trial lenses.
542
Retinoscopy
The use of a retinoscope to determine a refractive error; the first step in refractometry. Also called Objective Refractometry.
543
Retrobulbar
Behind the eye.
544
Retrobulbar Hemorrhage
Hemorrhage behind the eye.
545
Retroscopic Tilt
The tilt of an eyeglass frame adjusted so that the lower rim tilts away from the face.
546
Rigid Gas-Permeable (RGP) Lenses
Contact lenses that permit oxygen and carbon dioxide diffusion through both the lens material and a tear pump.
547
Rod
The retinal photoreceptor largely responsible for vision in dim light (scotopic or "night vision") and for peripheral vision.
548
Round-Top Segment
A portion of a circle fused or ground into a distance lens for near vision; may be used in bifocals and trifocals.
549
Routine Situation
A medical situation that usually can be scheduled for the next available routine office appointment time, within a few days or weeks.
550
Rubeosis Iridis
A condition in which the iris develops a reddish color due to neovascularization.
551
Scanning Laser Polarimeters with Variable Corneal Compensation (model GDx VCC)
A device that measures retinal nerve fiber layer (RNFL) thickness. The VCC (variable corneal compensation) model improves test results for detecting glaucoma.
552
Schiotz Tonometer
An indentation contact tonometer that uses weights and a table of measurements based on the weight used to determine intraocular pressure.
553
Schirmer Tear Test
A test that used a stripe of filter paper to measure the patient's tear output and helps to confirm the diagnosis of dry eye conditions.
554
Sclera
The outer fibrous tissue of the globe, which surrounds the cornea and forms the wall of the eye; protects intraocular contents.
555
Scleral Buckle
A surgical procedure for correcting retinal detachment that involves placing a block of silicone or other material on the sclera to indent the wall of the eye.
556
Scleral Rigidity
The resistance to stretching of the white fibrous out layer of the eye.
557
Scleritis
Inflammation of the sclera.
558
Scotoma
An area within the contours of the visual field where vision is reduced.
559
Scotopic Vision
Referring to eyesight under dark-adapted conditions.
560
Secondary Glaucoma
Glaucoma that occurs secondary to another, primary disease.
561
Segment Height
The distance between the lowest part of an eyeglass rim and the top of a multifocal lens segment.
562
Shallow Scotoma
A mild visual field defect that appears as the depression in the island of vision.
563
Short-Wavelength Automated Perimetry (SWAP)
A perimetry examination using blue light stimuli on a yellow background. SWAP is considered a more sensitive visual field test than the standard achromatic perimetry (SAP) in identifying early glaucomatous visual field defects.
564
Sign
An abnormal change observed objectively by the physician on examination of the patient.
565
Sinus
A bony cavern of the skull that contains air and connects to the nasal passages.
566
Slit Lamp
An instrument used for close examination of the lids and lashes, cornea, lens, membranes, and clear fluids within the eye; consists of a microscope of low magnifying power and a light source that projects a rectangular beam that changes in size and focus. Also called a biomicroscope.
567
Snellen Acuity Test
A measurement of visual acuity by testing the ability to read characters at a standard distance on a special target called the Snellen chart.
568
Snellen Chart
A printed visual acuity chart consisting of Snellen optotypes - specially formed letters of the alphabet arranged in rows of decreasing letter size.
569
Soft Lenses
Flexible contact lenses that permit oxygen and carbon dioxide diffusion through the lens material itself, with a minimal tear pump.
570
Solution
The form of a drug in which the drug is completely dissolved in an inert liquid.
571
Species
A category of biologic classification ranking immediately below genus; the specific name for the type of organism.
572
Spectacle Blur
Temporary blurred vision upon switching from contact lenses to eyeglasses.
573
Specular Microscopy/Photography
A method of microscopically photographing the cornea's endothelial cells at great magnification and producing photographs on which the cells can be counted.
574
Spherical Cornea
A cornea (of the normal eye, and most myopic and hyperopic eyes) whose curvature is uniform.
575
Spherical Lens
Also simply sphere. A concave or convex lens whose curvature in uniform, allowing it to focus light rays to a single point.
576
`Sphereocylinder
Also simply cylinder. A combination of a spherical lens and a cylindrical lens. Sometimes called toric lens.
577
Sphinter Muscle
The muscle that encircles the pupil and makes the pupil smaller in response to bright light.
578
Spore
A resting state of bacterium, protected by a heavy cell wall that permits the bacterium to survive for a long period of time until suitable conditions for growth occur.
579
Standard Precautions
A program of sanitation and microbial control in the medical office, intended to reduce the opportunity for harmful microbes to flourish and threaten patients and medical personnel. Includes the provisions of universal precautions and body substance isolation precautions.
580
Static Perimetry
The type of perimetry that uses a target that can be varied in size, brightness, and position within the visual field but is only displayed while stationary.
581
Stereopsis
Three-dimensional visual perception.
582
Sterile Drapes
A large, sterile protective barrier sheet made of plastic, synthetic fiber, or cloth, placed around the part of the body that is to undergo surgery.
583
Sterile Operating Field
The surgical area and the materials within that area that have undergone sterilization. Also called simply sterile field.
584
Sterilization
A process that utilizes heat or chemicals to destroy all living or dormant microorganisms.
585
Strabismus Amblyopia
The tendency of a child's brain to suppress the image from the deviating eye.
586
Strabismus
A misalignment of the eyes that may cause vision to be disturbed; occurs when the extraocular muscles do not work in a coordinated manner.
587
Subconjunctival Hemorrhage
A rupture of a conjunctival blood vessel that allows blood to flow under the tissue and produces a bright-red flat area on the conjunctiva.
588
Super Pinhole
A pinhole occlude that helps to determine macular function in a patient with an opacity, such as a cataract.
589
Superior Oblique Muscle
Extraocular muscle attached to the upper, outer side of the globe; 3 functions are to rotate the eye downward and outward, and to rotate inward.
590
Superior Rectus Muscle
Extraocular muscle attached to the upper side of the globe; 3 functions are to elevate the eye, turn the eye inward, and rotate the eye inward.
591
Suppression
The brain's mechanism to avoid double vision by ignoring the image from one eye. This can lead to amblyopia if not treated. The brain loses this ability after childhood.
592
Suprathreshold Static Perimetry
A type of perimetry in which a light or target of a specific size, brightness, or intensity is chosen so that the patient should be able to see it when it is placed at a particular site in the visual field.
593
Surfactant Cleaner
A specialized contact else cleaning solution and wetting agent.
594
Suspension
The form of a medication in which particles of the drug are suspended in a liquid vehicle.
595
Suture
To stitch a wound closed; the pattern of the stitch; or the threat-like material used to make the stitch.
596
Swinging-light Test
A test used to define normal binocular pupillary response to a light stimulus; the direct and consensual pupillary reaction. Also called swinging-flashlight test.
597
Symptom
A subjective abnormality that cannot be directly observed by another person but only perceived by the patient; examples include eye pain, blurred vision, or itching.
598
Synapse
The connection between nerves, where electric (nerve) impulses are transmitted.
599
Syndrome
A set of signs or symptoms that is characteristic of a specific condition or disease.
600
Syringe
An instrument for injecting liquid into or withdrawing liquid from a blood vessel or cavity.
601
Systemic Drug Delivery
Intravenous, intramuscular, or subcutaneous injection or oral administration for absorption into the circulatory system.
602
Tangent Screen Test
A type of manual perimetry used for identifying visual field defects with 30 degrees of a fixation point.
603
Tarsus
The dense, plate-like framework within the middle layer of each eyelid that gives the eyelids their firmness and shape. Also called tarsal plate.
604
Tear Film
The moist coating, composed of three layers, that convers the anterior surface of the globe.
605
Temporal Arteritis
A systemic autoimmune disease with invasion of large inflammatory cells into arteries that can cause obstruction of the central retinal artery leading to blindness.
606
Thermal Trauma
Refers to injury that results in the burning or freezing of tissues.
607
Threshold Static Perimetry
The type of static perimetry in which the threshold is that level of brightness at which the patient can just detect a test object about half the time.
608
Titmus Stereopsis Test
A test for determining whether a patient has fine depth perception in terms of binocular cooperation.
609
Tomography
A detailed mapping of the contours of a tissue or organ.
610
Tonometer
An instrument for measuring intraocular pressure.
611
Tonometry
The measurement of intraocular pressure by means of a tonometer; useful in the diagnosis of glaucoma.
612
Tono-Pen
A portable electronic tonometer used to measure intraocular pressure.
613
Topical Application
A route of drug administration in which the medication is applied to the surface of the eye or another body part; topically applied medications may be in the form of liquids, gels, or ointments.
614
Toric Cornea
A cornea whose surface curvature is not uniform.
615
Toxin
A poison.
616
Toxoplasmosis
A protozoan organism that can infect the retina and the brain causing specific local lesions. If the lesion is on the macula, it can lead to loss of central vision.
617
Trabecular Meshwork
The sponge-like structure that filters the aqueous humor from the anterior chamber and controls its rate of flow out of the eye.
618
Transilluminator
A small-tipped flashlight.
619
Translucent
Refers to a substance that transmits light but significantly interferes with its passage.
