The correct spelling of the term "annulus conjunctivae," referring to the white ring around the iris of the eye, can be tricky to remember. It is pronounced /əˈnjuːləs kənˈdʒʌŋktɪvi/ and is often misspelled due to its unusual combination of Latin and medical terminology. One way to remember its spelling is to break it down: "annulus" means "ring" in Latin, while "conjunctivae" refers to the conjunctiva, the clear membrane covering the front of the eye.
The term "annulus conjunctivae" refers to a specific anatomical structure found in the eye. An annulus (plural: annuli) is a ring-like structure, and conjunctivae are the plural form of the term "conjunctiva." The conjunctiva is a thin, transparent membrane that lines the inner surface of the eyelids and covers the front surface of the eyeball, excluding the cornea.
The annulus conjunctivae, also known as the limbus or limbal ring, is a circular boundary formed by the junction between the conjunctiva and the cornea. It appears as a slightly elevated ridge that separates the white of the eyeball (sclera) from the transparent part (cornea). The annulus conjunctivae is more prominent on the temporal (outer) side of the eye and less apparent on the nasal (inner) side.
This structure serves several important functions. Firstly, the annulus conjunctivae provides structural support to the cornea, which is involved in focusing light onto the retina. Additionally, it acts as a physical barrier, preventing microorganisms and foreign particles from entering the eye. Furthermore, the annulus conjunctivae contains blood vessels that help supply nourishment to the cornea, aiding in maintaining its transparency.
The appearance of the annulus conjunctivae can vary among individuals, with differences in pigmentation and thickness. Its visibility is more pronounced in some people, contributing to the aesthetic perception of the eye.
Conjunctival ring, a narrow ring at the junction of the periphery of the cornea with the conjunctiva.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
The term annulus conjunctivae is a medical term used to describe a condition called corneal arcus. It refers to a whitish or grayish ring visible around the cornea, the clear front part of the eye.
Etymologically, annulus is a Latin word meaning ring or circle. Conjunctivae is the plural form of the Latin word conjunctiva, which is derived from the verb conjungere, meaning to join together. In medical terminology, conjunctivae specifically refers to the thin, transparent mucous membrane that lines the inner surface of the eyelids and covers the sclera (the white part of the eye). Thus, annulus conjunctivae can be translated as the ring of the conjunctiva.