IRIDOCORNEAL ANGLE Meaning and
Definition
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The iridocorneal angle refers to the anatomical region where the iris, cornea, and trabecular meshwork of the eye meet. It is a crucial structure in maintaining the balance of aqueous humor fluid in the eye and plays a vital role in regulating intraocular pressure.
The iridocorneal angle is composed of two components: the anterior chamber angle and the posterior chamber angle. The anterior chamber angle is located in the front of the eye, where the cornea and iris meet. It contains the trabecular meshwork, which is responsible for draining aqueous humor from the eye and maintaining appropriate fluid levels. The posterior chamber angle, located in the back of the eye, is formed by the iris and ciliary body.
Proper drainage of the aqueous humor is essential in preventing the buildup of fluid, which can lead to an increase in intraocular pressure and potentially cause glaucoma, a serious condition that can result in vision loss if left untreated. The iridocorneal angle aids in the outflow of aqueous humor through a system of channels and facilitates the regulation of eye pressure.
Assessment and evaluation of the iridocorneal angle are important in identifying any abnormalities or narrow angles that may lead to potential eye conditions. Conditions like angle-closure glaucoma can occur due to abnormalities in the iridocorneal angle, necessitating prompt diagnosis and treatment.
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A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
Common Misspellings for IRIDOCORNEAL ANGLE
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Etymology of IRIDOCORNEAL ANGLE
The word "iridocorneal" is derived from two main components: "iris" and "cornea". The prefix "irido-" refers to the iris, which is the colored portion of the eye, while the term "cornea" refers to the transparent front part of the eye.
The word "angle" in this term refers to the anatomical angle formed where the iris and cornea meet. This angle is crucial for the drainage of aqueous humor, a fluid that helps maintain the eye's pressure and nourish various structures within the eye.
Therefore, the term "iridocorneal angle" essentially describes the specific angle formed between the iris and cornea in the eye's anterior chamber, which plays a vital role in the eye's fluid dynamics.
