The hyaloid canal is a small tube that runs through the center of the vitreous humor in the eye. The spelling of this word is "hahy-uh-loid kuh-nl" in IPA phonetic transcription. The "h" is pronounced with a breath of air, the "y" is pronounced like the "i" in "bit", the "a" is pronounced like the "a" in "father", the "l" is pronounced with a flick of the tongue, and the "oid" is pronounced like "oyd". The stress is on the first syllable.
Hyaloid canal refers to a slender, tube-like structure found within the eye that is formed during embryonic development. Also known as the central canal of the vitreous, it is primarily composed of hyaloid tissue. The hyaloid canal is surrounded by the vitreous humor, a gel-like substance that fills the space between the lens and the retina of the eyeball.
The primary function of the hyaloid canal is to provide a pathway for the hyaloid artery during fetal development. This artery supplies nourishment to the developing lens and other structures of the eye. As the eye matures and the hyaloid artery becomes unnecessary, it regresses, leaving behind the hyaloid canal as a residual remnant.
In some cases, anomalies or malformations can occur during the regression process, resulting in the persistence of the hyaloid canal into adulthood. This condition is known as a hyaloid canal remnant or persistent hyperplastic primary vitreous (PHPV). Individuals with PHPV may experience visual disturbances or other eye-related complications.
The hyaloid canal is a significant structure in ophthalmology and is of particular interest to researchers and medical professionals studying embryonic eye development. Its study helps to deepen our understanding of the complex processes involved in the formation and regeneration of ocular tissues.
The central canal in the vitreous body.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
The word "hyaloid" is derived from the Greek words "hyalos" meaning "glass" and "eidos" meaning "shape" or "form". The term "hyaloid" refers to anything transparent or glass-like in appearance.
The word "canal" has Latin origins and comes from the Latin word "canalis", meaning "pipe" or "channel".
Therefore, the "hyaloid canal" refers to a transparent channel or pipe-like structure, often found in the eye, that allows the passage of fluid.