KERATOMETER Meaning and
Definition
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A keratometer is a medical device used to examine the curvature of the cornea, the clear front part of the eye that covers the iris and the pupil. It is primarily employed in ophthalmology to measure the shape and curvature of the cornea, essential for diagnosing and monitoring various eye conditions, including astigmatism and certain corneal abnormalities.
The keratometer consists of a movable eyepiece and a fixed ring on its base. To measure the corneal curvature, the patient positions their chin on a chinrest and focuses on a target while the doctor or technician shines a spotlight on the cornea. The movable eyepiece is adjusted until the reflected images of the fixed ring precisely align with each other.
By determining the curvature and radius of the cornea's anterior surface (front side), the keratometer provides valuable information on the corneal power and shape. This data is crucial for fitting contact lenses, calculating intraocular lens power during cataract surgery, and assessing the extent of corneal irregularities or diseases.
Keratometers are widely used due to their accuracy, simplicity, and non-invasive nature. They help eye care professionals monitor and make informed decisions about the treatment options for patients with refractive errors or corneal abnormalities, improving their vision and overall eye health.
Common Misspellings for KERATOMETER
- jeratometer
- leratometer
- oeratometer
- ieratometer
- kwratometer
- ksratometer
- kdratometer
- krratometer
- k4ratometer
- k3ratometer
- keeatometer
- kedatometer
- kefatometer
- ketatometer
- ke5atometer
- ke4atometer
- kerztometer
- kerstometer
- kerwtometer
- kerqtometer
Etymology of KERATOMETER
The word "Keratometer" is derived from the Greek roots "kerato-" meaning "cornea" and "-meter" meaning "measure". Thus, the etymology of "Keratometer" reflects its purpose, which is to measure the curvature of the cornea.
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