ASTIGMATOSCOPY Meaning and
Definition
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Astigmatoscopy is a medical term commonly used in ophthalmology to assess and diagnose astigmatism. Astigmatism is an optical defect that causes the eye to focus light unevenly onto the retina, resulting in blurred or distorted vision. Astigmatoscopy involves the use of specific techniques and instruments to measure the degree, orientation, and axis of astigmatism in an individual's eyes.
During astigmatoscopy, a trained ophthalmologist or optometrist uses a device called an astigmatometer. This instrument allows them to objectively measure the shape and curvature of the cornea, which plays a critical role in how light is refracted and focused by the eye. By analyzing the reflected or refracted light patterns, the astigmatoscope provides important information about the astigmatic condition of the patient's eye.
The results obtained from an astigmatoscopy examination help eye care professionals determine the appropriate prescription for corrective lenses, such as glasses or contact lenses. Additionally, astigmatoscopy is useful in evaluating the effectiveness of refractive surgery (e.g., LASIK) in correcting astigmatism.
In summary, astigmatoscopy is a diagnostic procedure used by eye care professionals to measure and analyze the degree and type of astigmatism in a patient's eyes. It is a valuable tool in precisely determining the optical correction required to improve visual acuity and provide clearer, sharper vision.
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The use of the astigmatoscope.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
Common Misspellings for ASTIGMATOSCOPY
- astigmatoscoqy
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- astigma toscopy
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Etymology of ASTIGMATOSCOPY
The word "astigmatoscopy" is derived from two Greek roots: "astigmatos" (ἀστιγματός) and "skopein" (σκοπεῖν).
- The Greek root "astigmatos" means "without a point" or "pointless". In terms of optics and ophthalmology, astigmatism refers to a refractive error in the eye where the cornea or lens has an irregular curvature, causing blurred or distorted vision.
- The Greek root "skopein" means "to look" or "to examine". It is often used in medical terminology to indicate procedures or instruments used for examination or visualization.
By combining these two roots, "astigmatoscopy" is formed to describe a method or examination technique used to correct or diagnose astigmatism in the eye.
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