Ophthalmology Glossary

A condition in which the retina becomes separated from the underlying tissue, causing vision loss and requiring immediate medical attention.

A disease of the retina often associated with diabetes, hypertension, or other conditions, which can cause damage to the blood vessels and lead to vision impairment.

A condition in which the shape of the cornea or lens of the eye causes light to focus improperly on the retina, resulting in blurry vision. Examples of refractive errors include nearsightedness (myopia), farsightedness (hyperopia), and astigmatism.

Retinal vein occlusion is a blockage of the veins that drain blood from the retina, leading to vision loss and potential complications.

A diagnostic procedure in which a light is shone into the eye to assess the refractive error and determine the appropriate prescription for eyeglasses or contact lenses.

The use of laser technology to treat various retinal conditions, such as diabetic retinopathy, retinal tears, and retinal holes.

A group of inherited eye disorders that affect the structure and function of the retina, resulting in progressive vision loss.

Retinoblastoma is a rare type of eye cancer that occurs in the retina, typically affecting young children. Early detection and treatment are crucial for preserving vision and preventing spread to other parts of the body.

The tough, white outer covering of the eye that helps maintain its shape and protects the delicate structures inside. (Scleral Melanocytosis)

Stye is a localized infection of the eyelid's oil glands, usually caused by bacterial infection, resulting in a painful, red bump on the eyelid.

Scotoma is an area of partial or complete loss of vision within the visual field, often described as a "blind spot."

Synechia is adhesion or fusion of the iris, the colored part of the eye, to other structures in the eye, leading to vision impairment and potential complications.

Thyroid eye disease also known as Graves' ophthalmopathy, it is an autoimmune condition that affects the eyes and surrounding tissues in patients with thyroid dysfunction. It can cause proptosis (bulging of the eyes), double vision, and other visual disturbances.

The bending of light as it passes through the cornea and lens of the eye, which helps to focus an image on the retina.

A condition in which the eye does not focus light properly, causing blurry vision.

Retina, the light-sensitive layer of tissue at the back of the eye that receives and processes visual information.

Retinitis pigmentosa is a rare, inherited condition that causes degeneration of the retina, leading to vision loss over time.

Sclerectomy is a surgical procedure in which a small portion of the sclera (the white part of the eye) is removed to treat conditions such as glaucoma.

Stargardt disease is a rare, inherited form of macular degeneration that causes vision loss in children and young adults.

Strabismus is a condition in which the eyes are misaligned and do not point in the same direction, causing double vision or reduced vision in one eyeIt is also known as "crossed eyes" or "wall-eyed."

Toric IOL is an IOL that is used to correct astigmatism (a condition in which the cornea is unevenly shaped).