Musculus dilatator pupillae is a scientific term used to describe the muscle responsible for dilating the pupil of the eye. The word is made up of four distinct parts: musculus, which means muscle; dilatator, which means to dilate; pupillae, which refers to the pupil of the eye; and the connecting word "of." The correct pronunciation of this term is /ˈmʌskjʊləs ˈdaɪleɪtər ˈpjuːpɪli/. Each syllable in the word is pronounced separately, making it easier to understand and communicate effectively in the scientific community.
Musculus dilatator pupillae, commonly referred to as the dilator pupillae muscle, is a smooth muscle located in the iris of the eye. It plays a crucial role in controlling the size of the pupil, which is the dark circular opening in the center of the iris. The dilator pupillae muscle is responsible for expanding the pupil, causing it to become larger in diameter.
The muscle consists of radial fibers that originate from the root of the iris near the ciliary body, a ring-shaped structure behind the iris. These fibers extend towards the periphery of the iris, attaching themselves to the outer edge. When the dilator pupillae muscle contracts, it causes the radial fibers to pull away from the edge of the pupil, enlarging its size.
The contraction and expansion of the musculus dilatator pupillae are regulated by the autonomic nervous system, with the sympathetic division being primarily responsible for its dilation. Stimulation of the sympathetic nerves that innervate the muscle leads to its contraction, resulting in pupillary dilation. This response commonly occurs in situations of low light or heightened arousal, where the increased amount of light entering the eye is needed for optimizing visual acuity.
Overall, the musculus dilatator pupillae is a vital component of the eye's anatomy, controlling the pupil's size and allowing for appropriate adaptation to various lighting conditions, ultimately ensuring optimal visual perception.
The radial muscular fibers extending from the sphincter pupillae to the ciliary margin; some anatomists regard them as elastic, not muscular, in man.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.