507CHAPTER11
Special Senses:
Eyes and Ears
OBJECTIVES
Upon completion of this chapter, you will be able to:
- Describe the type of medical treatment the ophthalmologist and otolaryngologist provide.
- Identify the structures of the eye and ear by labeling them on the anatomical illustrations.
- Describe the primary functions of the eye and ear.
- Describe diseases, conditions, and procedures related to the eye and ear.
- Apply your word-building skills by constructing medical terms related to the eye and ear.
- Describe common abbreviations and symbols related to the eye and ear.
- Recognize, define, pronounce, and spell terms correctly.
- Demonstrate your knowledge of this chapter by successfully completing the frames, reviews,
and medical report evaluations.
MEDICAL SPECIALTIES
Ophthalmology
Ophthalmologyis the branch of medicine concerned with diagnosis and treatment of eye disorders. The medical specialist
in ophthalmology is called an ophthalmologist.
Although ophthalmologists specialize in the treatment of the eyes only, it is important for them to be cognizant
of other abnormalities that may be revealed during an eye examination. The importance of an eye examination cannot
be overestimated, because it commonly reveals the first signs of systemic illnesses (such as diabetes) that may be taking
place in other parts of the body. The medical practice of ophthalmology includes prescribing corrective lenses and
performing various types of corrective eye surgeries. Specialized surgeries involve techniques that are as delicate and
precise as that of neurosurgery and are commonly performed using magnifying glasses and laser beams. Corrective eye
surgeries include cornea transplantation, cataract removal, repair of ocular muscle dysfunction, glaucoma treatment,
lens removal, and radial keratotomy.
Two other health-care providers, the optometristand optician,specialize in providing corrective lenses for the
eyes. They are not medical doctors, but are licensed to examine and test the eyes. They also diagnose and treat visual
defects by prescribing corrective lenses.
Otolaryngology
Otolaryngologyis the medical and surgical management of patients with disorders of the ear, nose, and throat (ENT)
and related structures of the head and neck. Otolaryngologists,also known as ENT physicians,commonly treat dis-
orders related to the sinuses, including allergies and disorders of the sense of smell. Their diagnostic techniques are