Introduction to the Special Senses: The Eye and Sight

Vocabulary based on the anatomy of the eye, special senses, and common vision disorders.

Astigmatism

A condition where the cornea or lens has an abnormal shape.

Myopia

A dysfunction of the lens known as nearsightedness, where the individual cannot see far away.

Hyperopia

A dysfunction of the lens known as farsightedness, where the individual cannot see close up.

Blepharitis

Inflammation of the eyelid.

Special Senses

The group of clinical senses including vision, hearing, taste, smell, and touch.

Sclera

The white portion of the eye.

Pupil

The center opening of the eye.

Cornea

The clear covering in the center of the eye that performs the function of refraction.

Iris

The colored portion of the eye.

Retina

The part of the eye that contains cones and rods and captures vision input.

Conjunctiva

The clear coating on the outside of the eye.

Lens

A structure located behind the iris and in front of the vitreous body that changes shape to bend light and allow the eye to focus on objects at varying distances.

Accommodation

The ability of the lens to change shape.

Refraction

The bending of light that enters the eye to focus it on the retina.