Mt Ch8 Kt normal structure and function Flashcards
(40 cards)
What does the term ‘aural’ refer to?
Pertaining to or perceived by the ear
Aural is often used in contexts related to hearing and auditory functions.
What is a decibel (dB)?
A unit for measuring the relative intensity of sound
Decibels are used to quantify sound levels and are a logarithmic unit.
What does hertz (Hz) measure?
A unit for measuring the frequency (pitch) of sound
Hertz indicates the number of cycles per second of a sound wave.
What is the mastoid process?
A small projection of the temporal bone behind the external auditory canal; it consists of loosely arranged bony material and small, air-filled cavities
The mastoid process is important in ear anatomy and can be involved in various medical conditions.
What is the role of the stapedius muscle?
A small muscle attached to the stapes; it contracts in the presence of a loud sound, producing the acoustic reflex
The acoustic reflex helps protect the inner ear from damage due to loud sounds.
Define cholesteatoma.
A cyst-like mass containing cholesterol that is most common in the middle ear and mastoid region; a possible complication of chronic middle ear infection
Cholesteatomas can lead to hearing loss and other complications if not treated.
What is labyrinthitis?
Inflammation of the ear’s labyrinth (inner ear); otitis interna
Labyrinthitis can result in vertigo and balance issues.
Define mastoiditis.
Inflammation of the air cells of the mastoid process
Mastoiditis can occur as a complication of otitis media.
What does presbyacusis refer to?
Loss of hearing caused by aging
Presbyacusis typically affects higher frequencies first.
What is audiometry?
Measurement of hearing
Audiometry is used to assess hearing levels and identify hearing loss.
What is electronystagmography (ENG)?
A method for recording eye movements by means of electrical responses; such movements reflect vestibular dysfunction
ENG is often used to evaluate balance disorders.
What branch of medicine does otorhinolaryngology (ORL) represent?
The branch of medicine that deals with diseases of the ear(s), nose, and throat (ENT)
Otorhinolaryngology is also known as ENT medicine.
What instrument is used for examining the ear?
Otoscope
An otoscope allows healthcare providers to look inside the ear canal and eardrum.
What does the Rinne test measure?
Hearing by comparing results of bone conduction and air conduction
The Rinne test uses a tuning fork for assessment.
Define spondee.
A two-syllable word with equal stress on each syllable; used in hearing tests
Examples include ‘toothbrush’, ‘baseball’, ‘cowboy’, ‘pancake’.
What is the purpose of the Weber test?
To assess hearing loss by using a vibrating tuning fork placed at the center of the head
The Weber test helps determine whether hearing loss is conductive or sensorineural.
What is the definition of accommodation?
Adjustment of the lens’s curvature to allow for vision at various distances
Accommodation is essential for focusing on objects at varying distances.
What is aqueous humor?
Fluid that fills the eye anterior to the lens
Aqueous humor maintains intraocular pressure and provides nutrients to the eye.
What is the choroid?
The dark, vascular, middle layer of the eye; part of the uvea
The choroid contains blood vessels that nourish the retina.
What is the ciliary body?
The muscular portion of the uvea that surrounds the lens and adjusts its shape for near and far vision
The ciliary body also produces aqueous humor.
What are cones?
Specialized cells in the retina that respond to light; have high visual acuity, function in bright light, and respond to colors
Cones are essential for color vision.
What is the conjunctiva?
The mucous membrane that lines the eyelids and covers the eyeball’s anterior surface
The conjunctiva protects and lubricates the eye.
What is convergence in terms of eye movement?
Coordinated movement of the eyes toward fixation on the same point
Convergence is important for binocular vision.
What is the cornea?
The clear, anterior portion of the sclera
The cornea is responsible for most of the eye’s optical power.
