ASTIGMATOMETRY Meaning and
Definition
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Astigmatometry is a technique used in ophthalmology to measure astigmatism, a refractive error that causes blurred vision. It is a quantitative method that assists in determining the precise nature and degree of astigmatism present in an individual's eyes.
Astigmatism is a condition where the cornea, the front clear surface of the eye, or the lens behind it, has an irregular shape rather than being perfectly round. This causes light to focus on multiple points on the retina, resulting in distorted and blurred vision. Astigmatometry employs instruments known as astigmatometers to assess the degree of astigmatism and measure the exact orientation and power of the astigmatic meridians.
During the astigmatometry test, the patient is asked to look at a series of lines or patterns displayed on a screen or chart while the astigmatometer measures the reflections from the cornea or other parts of the eye. These measurements are then analyzed to determine the specific astigmatism correction required.
Astigmatometry is an essential diagnostic tool in ophthalmology, aiding in the accurate prescription of eyeglasses or contact lenses. It is particularly helpful for patients experiencing blurry vision or difficulties focusing at various distances. By providing precise measurements, astigmatometry assists eye care professionals in recommending the most suitable corrective lenses or determining whether the individuals may benefit from further medical interventions, such as refractive surgery.
Common Misspellings for ASTIGMATOMETRY
- astigmatometer
- zstigmatometry
- sstigmatometry
- wstigmatometry
- qstigmatometry
- aatigmatometry
- aztigmatometry
- axtigmatometry
- adtigmatometry
- aetigmatometry
- awtigmatometry
- asrigmatometry
- asfigmatometry
- asgigmatometry
- asyigmatometry
- as6igmatometry
- as5igmatometry
- astugmatometry
- astjgmatometry
- astkgmatometry
Etymology of ASTIGMATOMETRY
The word "astigmatometry" is derived from two main roots: "astigmat-" and "-metry".
The root "astigmat-" comes from the Greek word "astigmatos" (ἀστιγματος), which means "without a point" or "without a spot". In the field of optics, "astigmatism" refers to an abnormality in the curvature of the cornea or lens of the eye, causing distorted vision. This term was first introduced by Thomas Young, a British physician and physicist, in the early 19th century.
The suffix "-metry" is derived from the Greek word "metron" (μέτρον), which means "measure". It is commonly used in scientific and technical terminology to denote the act or process of measuring.
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