Skiascopy (/skaɪˈæskəpi/) is a method used to determine the refractive errors of the eye. The word skiascopy comes from the Greek word "skia", which means shadow, and "skopein", which means to watch. In skiascopy, a retinoscope is used to shine a light into the eye, and the observer watches the movement and reflection of the light on the retina. The phonetic transcription of "skiascopy" breaks down the pronunciation into syllables, with the stress on the second syllable, "a".
Skiascopy, also known as retinoscopy or shadow test, is a diagnostic procedure used by optometrists and ophthalmologists to determine the refractive error of a person's eyes. This objective test measures the focusing ability of the eyes by examining the way light is reflected from the retina.
During a skiascopy examination, the patient is asked to focus on a distant target, while the examiner shines a light directly into the patient's eye. The light causes a bright reflection from the retina, known as the pupillary reflex, which is then observed by the examiner. By carefully observing the direction and movement of the reflected light, the examiner can assess the shape and position of the patient's eye lenses to determine any refractive errors present.
Skiascopy is an especially useful tool for assessing the refractive errors in patients who may not be able to provide reliable subjective responses, such as young children or individuals with communication difficulties. It allows the examiner to gather objective data in a quick and efficient manner.
The results obtained from skiascopy provide important information regarding the patient's prescription for corrective lenses, including the amount of nearsightedness, farsightedness, or astigmatism present. This information is crucial for the proper fitting of glasses or contact lenses to ensure optimal visual acuity and comfort.
In summary, skiascopy is a diagnostic technique used to determine the refractive error of a person's eyes by observing the movement and direction of the reflected light during pupillary reflex.
1. Retinoscopy. 2. Fluoroscopy.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
The word "skiascopy" is derived from the Greek words "skia" meaning "shadow" and "skopein" meaning "to see" or "to observe". When combined, they form "skiascopy", which refers to a method of determining refractive error in the eye by observing the shadows produced within the pupil.