The correct spelling of "sign of the orbicularis" is /saɪn əv ði ɔːrˈbɪkjʊlærɪs/. The first syllable "si" is pronounced with a long "i" sound while "gn" is pronounced with a silent "g". "Orbicularis" is spelled phonetically as "or-bik-yoo-lar-is" with the emphasis on the second syllable "-bik-". This term refers to a clinical sign used in medicine to assess facial nerve function by examining the movement of the orbicularis muscle.
The sign of the orbicularis refers to a medical term associated with the clinical examination of eye function. The orbicularis oculi muscle is a circular, sphincter-like muscle located around the eyes that plays a crucial role in facial expressions, blinking, and closing the eyelids. Its main function is to close the eyelids to protect the eyes from potentially harmful external stimuli.
When medical professionals refer to the sign of the orbicularis, they are typically referring to the observation of weakness or paralysis of this muscle during the examination. This sign can manifest in various conditions such as facial nerve palsy, where the facial nerve that innervates the orbicularis oculi muscle is damaged or not functioning properly.
In cases of facial nerve palsy, the inability to fully close the affected eye due to orbicularis weakness can lead to several complications such as dryness, irritation, and even corneal damage. The sign of the orbicularis can be assessed through a range of diagnostic techniques, including assessing the patient's ability to voluntarily close their eyelids, observing the presence of lagophthalmos (incomplete eyelid closure), and measuring the strength of orbicularis contraction through electromyography.
The sign of the orbicularis is an important clinical finding that provides valuable information about the integrity of the facial nerve and the functionality of the orbicularis oculi muscle, aiding in the diagnosis of various neurologic, ophthalmic, or systemic conditions.
Inability of a hemiplegic voluntarily to close the eye upon the paralyzed side except in conjunction with closure of the other eye.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.