The word "canthus" is spelled with a silent "h" and pronounced as [kan-thuh s]. The IPA phonetic transcription breaks down the pronunciation into individual sounds: /kæn/ for the "c" sound, /θ/ for the "th" sound, and /əs/ for the "us" sound. A canthus is a corner or angle where two parts of an animal's body, such as the eye or mouth, meet. Correctly spelling and pronouncing medical terms like canthus is important in healthcare professions to avoid confusion and miscommunication.
A canthus refers to the angle or the corner where the upper and lower eyelids meet at the outer edges of the eye. It can also be specifically categorized into two types: the lateral canthus and the medial canthus. The lateral canthus, also known as the outer canthus, is positioned on the external side of the eye where the upper and lower eyelids connect towards the temple region. On the other hand, the medial canthus, referred to as the inner canthus, is found on the inner side of the eye where the upper and lower eyelids meet towards the bridge of the nose.
The canthus region plays a significant role in several aspects. Functionally, it helps to form the opening of the eye and contributes to the normal movement, blinking, and closure of the eyelids. Aesthetically, the canthus also plays a part in facial appearance and expressions. As for clinical significance, any abnormalities or conditions affecting the canthus, such as entropion (inward turning of the eyelid) or ectropion (outward turning of the eyelid), can lead to discomfort, visual disturbances, or cosmetic concerns. Therefore, the canthus is an important anatomical area that holds both functional and visual significance related to the eye and its surrounding structures.
Commissura palpebrarum. Either extremity of the rima palpebrarum or slit between the eyelids; the two are called inner, internal, or nasal c. and outer, external, or temporal c., or medial and lateral palpebral commissures respectively.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
The angle or corner of the eye.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
The word "canthus" originates from the Latin term "canthus", which referred to the angle or corner of the eye where the upper and lower eyelids meet. Latin borrowed this term from Ancient Greek, where "kanthos" (κανθός) had the same meaning.