This sample chapter is for review purposes only. Copyright © The Goodheart-Willcox Co., Inc. All rights reserved.
Chapter 6 Intern Experience
Special Sensory Organs: Eye and Ear
ophthalm / o / logy = the study of the eye
ot / o / logy = the study of the ear
Chapter Organization Chapter Objectives
• Intern Experience After completing this chapter, you will be able to
• Overview of Anatomy and Physiology of the 1. label anatomical diagrams of the eye and the
Eye and Ear ear;
• Word Elements 2. dissect and define common medical
• Breaking Down and Building Terms Related to terminology related to the special sensory
the Eye and Ear organs of vision and hearing;
• Diseases and Disorders 3. build terms used to describe diseases
and disorders of the eye and ear, as well
• Procedures and Treatments
as diagnostic procedures and therapeutic
• Analyzing the Intern Experience treatments;
• Working with Medical Records 4. pronounce and spell common medical
• Chapter Review terminology related to the special sensory
organs of vision and hearing;
5. understand that the processes of building and
dissecting a medical term based on its prefix,
word root, and suffix enable you to analyze
an extremely large number of medical terms
beyond those presented in this chapter;
6. interpret the meaning of abbreviations
associated with the special sensory organs
of vision and hearing; and
7. interpret medical records containing
terminology and abbreviations related to
these special sensory organs.
You will see this icon at various points throughout this chapter. The icon indicates
that you will find interactive activities and games on the Medical Terminology Companion
Website. These activities and games will help you learn, practice, and expand your medical
terminology knowledge and skills. Some of these activities are also available on the Medical
Terminology Mobile Website.
Companion Website Mobile Site
www.g-wlearning.com/healthsciences www.m.g-wlearning.com/5800
236 Medical Terminology: Mastering the Basics
Debra is in the second week of her intern-
ship with University Eye and Ear Specialists, Inc.
Sofia Rodriguez had called the office as soon as
it opened, expressing concern for her four-year-old
son, Juan. At their designated appointment time,
Debra greets Mrs. Rodriguez and her son in the
waiting room and escorts them to an exam room.
Mrs. Rodriguez appears fatigued. She states
that she was awakened early that morning by her
son’s anguished screams. She informs Debra that
Juan’s face felt hot to the touch, and he was tugging
at his left ear. Because Juan has had recurrent ear
infections, Mrs. Rodriguez is worried about possible
hearing loss. Debra notes the mother’s concerns in
Juan’s chart, obtains his vital signs, and, using her
laptop computer, electronically signals to the physi-
cian that the patient is ready to be seen.
To help you understand Juan’s health con-
dition, this chapter will present word elements
(combining forms, prefixes, and suffixes) that
make up medical terminology related to the
ear, the sensory organ that controls hearing and
equilibrium (balance). You will also learn word
elements and medical terminology related to the
eye, the sensory organ of sight.
Let’s begin our study with a brief anatomical
and physiological overview of both the eye and
the ear. We will cover major structures of these
special sensory organs, along with their primary
functions. Later in the chapter, you will learn
about some common pathological conditions of
the eye and ear, tests and procedures used to di-
agnose those conditions, and common methods
for treating them.
Chapter 6 Special Sensory Organs: Eye and Ear 237
This sample chapter is for review purposes only. Copyright © The Goodheart-Willcox Co., Inc. All rights reserved.
Overview of Anatomy and Physiology of the
Eye and Ear
The special sensory organs contain receptors that receive information
about stimuli outside the body (the external environment) and transmit neural
impulses about these stimuli to the brain for interpretation. The special sen-
sory organs also process and interpret information about external stimuli to
help maintain internal homeostasis, a condition of stable physiological equilib-
rium (balance) that allows the body to function normally. (You will learn more
about homeostasis in your study of Chapter 7: The Nervous System.) Organs
of the sensory system play a vital role in homeostasis by alerting the body to
potential danger.
For example, two college students are walking down a dark, windy
street late at night after seeing a movie with some friends. They hear the
muffled crunching of stones from behind them, as if someone is following
them. The students quickly dart into a nearby convenience store and text
their roommates, asking whether one of them can give them a ride back to
their dormitory.
In this scenario, both the ears and the eyes—two of the special sensory
organs—play a crucial role in alerting the body to potential danger.
Sensory systems of the body include the five commonly recognized sen-
sory organs:
Organ Function(s)
Eye Sight (visual)
Ear Hearing (auditory); equilibrium, or balance (vestibular)
Nose Smell (olfactory)
Tongue Taste (gustatory)
Skin Touch (tactile or somatic)
For the purposes of this chapter, we will limit our discussion of special
sensory organs to the eye and the ear.
The Eye
The eye operates much like a camera. Incoming light passes through the
cornea, similar in function to the aperture (adjustable opening) of a camera
(Figure 6.1). The cornea is the clear, outer layer of the eye that covers the iris
and pupil; it allows light to travel to the interior of the eye. The amount of
light that enters the eye is controlled by the iris, the colored portion of the
anterior eye. Within the iris is an opening called the pupil, which contracts
(narrows) and dilates (expands) to regulate the amount of light entering the
eye, much like a camera shutter.
238 Medical Terminology: Mastering the Basics
Retina
Retinal blood vessels
Cornea
Optic nerve
Iris
Macula
Lens
Sclera
Figure 6.1 Major structures of the eye
The lens, located behind the pupil, focuses the light onto the retina. The
retina (RĔT-ĭ-nă), the innermost layer of the eye, receives images formed by the
lens. It contains light-sensing cells responsible for color vision and fine detail.
The retina acts much like camera film—or, in today’s technology, the memory
card inside a cell phone that carries information about the subscriber’s identity.
The retina sends information via the optic nerve to the brain for interpreta-
tion. The sclera (SKLĒ-ră) is the white, outer protective layer of the eye.
The Ear
The ear has three main parts: the external (outer) ear, the middle ear, and
the internal (inner) ear (Figure 6.2 on the next page). Sound waves enter the
external ear, or external auditory meatus (mē-ĂT-ŭs), and pass through the
middle ear to the tympanic (tĭm-PĂN-ĭk) membrane (eardrum), causing it to
vibrate. Vibrations in the eardrum are transmitted to the internal ear by three
very small bones called ossicles. The vibrations are detected by sensory recep-
tors in the inner ear, where the information is transmitted by nerve impulses
to the brain. The brain interprets these neural impulses as sound.
Besides the function of hearing, the ear is responsible for your sense of
equilibrium, or balance. Fluid in the semicircular canals, tiny channels within
the inner ear, control orientation and balance. They help you maintain steadi-
ness while standing or walking.
Anatomy and Physiology Vocabulary
Now that you have been introduced to the basic anatomy and physiology of
the eye and the ear, we will explore in more detail the key terms presented in
the introduction (see table on the next page).
Chapter 6 Special Sensory Organs: Eye and Ear 239
This sample chapter is for review purposes only. Copyright © The Goodheart-Willcox Co., Inc. All rights reserved.

Middle ear
Key Term Definition
(tympanic cavity)
Internal ossicles three small bones of the ear that transmit
External (outer) ear (inner) ear vibrations from the eardrum to the internal ear
pupil opening in the iris that contracts and dilates,
regulating the amount of light that enters the eye
retina innermost layer of the eye that receives images
formed by the lens
Semicircular canals
sclera white, outer protective layer of the eye
semicircular canals tiny channels in the inner ear that control balance
tympanic membrane eardrum
Auricle
(pinna)
E-Flash Card Activity: Anatomy and Physiology Vocabulary
Auditory
canal Directions: After you have reviewed the anatomy and physiology vocabulary
(external Cochlea related to the sensory organs of sight and hearing, practice with the e-flash cards
acoustic until you are comfortable with the spelling and definition of each term.
meatus)
Eustachian tube
Assessment

Identifying Major Structures of the Eye

Tympanic Directions: Label the anatomical diagram of the eye.

membrane
(eardrum)
Ossicles 8. __________________________

Figure 6.2 Major structures of the ear 1. __________________________

7. __________________________

Key Term Definition 2. __________________________

cornea transparent outer layer of the eye that covers the 6. __________________________
iris and pupil and allows light to enter
external auditory meatus external (outer) ear
internal ear inner ear 5. __________________________ 3. __________________________
iris colored portion of the anterior eye
lens structure of the eye that focuses light onto the retina 4. __________________________
middle ear central cavity of the ear
optic nerve nerve that carries impulses for the sense of sight SCORECARD: How Did You Do?
from the retina to the brain
Number correct (_____), divided by 8 (_____), multiplied by 100 equals _____ (your score)
(Continued)

240 Medical Terminology: Mastering the Basics Chapter 6 Special Sensory Organs: Eye and Ear 241
This sample chapter is for review purposes only. Copyright © The Goodheart-Willcox Co., Inc. All rights reserved.

Assessment Assessment

Identifying Major Structures of the Ear Matching Anatomy and Physiology Vocabulary
Directions: Label the anatomical diagram of the ear. Directions: Match the vocabulary term in Column A with its meaning in Column B. The meanings can be
used more than once.
2. __________________________
Column A Column B
______ 1. internal ear A. colored portion of the anterior eye
1. __________________________ 3. __________________________
______ 2. lens B. nerve that carries impulses for the sense of sight from the
______ 3. middle ear retina to the brain
______ 4. optic nerve C. external (outer) ear
______ 5. retina D. three small bones of the ear that transmit vibrations from
the eardrum to the internal ear
______ 6. tympanic membrane
E. innermost layer of the eye that receives images formed by
______ 7. cornea the lens
4. __________________________ ______ 8. semicircular canals F. structure of the eye that focuses light onto the retina
______ 9. pupil G. inner ear
______ 10. sclera H. white, outer protective layer of the eye
______ 11. ossicles I. eardrum
______ 12. iris J. central cavity of the ear
______ 13. external auditory meatus K. tiny channels in the inner ear that control balance
L. opening in the iris that contracts and dilates, regulating the
5. __________________________ amount of light that enters the eye
M. transparent outer layer of the eye that covers the iris and
pupil and allows light to enter

SCORECARD: How Did You Do?

Number correct (_____), divided by 13 (_____), multiplied by 100 equals _____ (your score)

10. __________________________
6. __________________________
Word Elements
9. __________________________
In this section you will learn word elements—prefixes, combining forms,
and suffixes—that are common to the special senses. By learning these word
8. __________________________ 7. __________________________ elements and understanding how they are combined to build medical terms,
you will be able to analyze Juan’s health problem (described in the Intern
Experience at the beginning of this chapter) and identify a large number of
SCORECARD: How Did You Do? terms associated with the special senses.
Number correct (_____), divided by 10 (_____), multiplied by 100 equals _____ (your score)

242 Medical Terminology: Mastering the Basics Chapter 6 Special Sensory Organs: Eye and Ear 243
This sample chapter is for review purposes only. Copyright © The Goodheart-Willcox Co., Inc. All rights reserved.

E-Flash Card Activity: Word Elements Suffixes

Directions: Review the word elements in the tables that follow. Then, practice Listed below are suffixes used in medical terms related to the special sen-
with the e-flash cards until you are able to quickly recognize the different word sory organs. You have already learned many of these suffixes.
parts (prefixes, combining forms, and suffixes) and their meanings. The e-flash
cards are grouped together by prefixes, combining forms, and suffixes, followed Suffix Meaning
by a cumulative review of all the word elements that you learned in this chapter.
-al pertaining to

Prefixes -algia pain

-ar pertaining to
This chapter presents terms that contain the prefixes listed below.
-ectomy surgical removal; excision
Prefix Meaning -gram record; image
an- not; without -ia condition
extra- outside
-ic pertaining to
hemi- half
-itis inflammation
intra- inside; within
para- near; beside -logist specialist in the study of

peri- around -logy study of

-meter instrument used to measure
Combining Forms -metry measurement
Listed below are common combining forms used in medical terms per- -opia vision
taining to the sensory organs of vision and hearing. -osis abnormal condition

Root Word/Combining Vowel Meaning -pexy surgical fixation

audi/o hearing -plasty surgical repair

blephar/o eyelid -ptosis drooping; downward displacement
ir/o iris -rrhea discharge; flow
irid/o iris -rrhexis rupture
kerat/o cornea
-scope instrument used to observe
myc/o fungus
-scopy process of observing
myring/o tympanic membrane; eardrum
ocul/o eye -spasm involuntary muscle contraction
ophthalm/o eye -stomy new opening
opt/o eye; vision -tomy incision; cut into
optic/o eye; vision
ot/o ear
pleg/o paralysis
presby/o old age
retin/o retina
scler/o sclera (white of the eye)
tympan/o tympanic membrane; eardrum

244 Medical Terminology: Mastering the Basics Chapter 6 Special Sensory Organs: Eye and Ear 245
This sample chapter is for review purposes only. Copyright © The Goodheart-Willcox Co., Inc. All rights reserved.

Assessment Suffixes
Matching Prefixes, Combining Forms, and Suffixes Column A Column B
Directions: In each exercise below, match the word element in Column A with its ______ 1. -stomy A. pertaining to
meaning in Column B. Some meanings may be used more than once. ______ 2. -metry B. pain
______ 3. -ia C. discharge; flow
Prefixes ______ 4. -tomy D. surgical removal; excision

Column A Column B ______ 5. -al E. record; image

______ 1. extra- A. inside; within ______ 6. -osis F. process of observing

______ 2. para- B. not; without ______ 7. -ectomy G. inflammation

______ 3. an- C. half ______ 8. -rrhea H. specialist in the study of

______ 4. peri- D. outside ______ 9. -algia I. study of

______ 5. hemi- E. near; beside ______ 10. -scopy J. instrument used to measure

______ 6. intra- F. around ______ 11. -ar K. measurement

______ 12. -plasty L. vision
______ 13. -ic M. incision; cut into
Combining Forms
______ 14. -scope N. abnormal condition
Column A Column B
______ 15. -logist O. surgical fixation
______ 1. retin/o A. iris
______ 16. -meter P. surgical repair
______ 2. ir/o B. eye
______ 17. -spasm Q. condition
______ 3. myring/o C. ear
______ 18. -gram R. drooping; downward displacement
______ 4. kerat/o D. sclera
______ 19. -rrhexis S. involuntary muscle contraction
______ 5. tympan/o E. hearing
______ 20. -itis T. rupture
______ 6. audi/o F. cornea
______ 21. -ptosis U. instrument used to observe
______ 7. opt/o G. vision
______ 22. -logy V. new opening
______ 8. blephar/o H. eyelid
______ 23. -pexy
______ 9. myc/o I. fungus
______ 24. -opia
______ 10. scler/o J. tympanic membrane; eardrum
______ 11. ot/o K. retina
______ 12. irid/o L. paralysis SCORECARD: How Did You Do?

______ 13. ophthalm/o M. old age Number correct (_____), divided by 46 (_____), multiplied by 100 equals _____ (your score)

______ 14. ocul/o

______ 15. pleg/o
______ 16. presby/o

246 Medical Terminology: Mastering the Basics Chapter 6 Special Sensory Organs: Eye and Ear 247
This sample chapter is for review purposes only. Copyright © The Goodheart-Willcox Co., Inc. All rights reserved.

Breaking Down and Building Terms Related to Term Dissection Word Part/Meaning Term Meaning
the Eye and Ear 11. extraocular extra/ocul/ar extra = outside pertaining to the
(ĔKS-tră-ŎK-yū-lăr) ocul = eye outside of the eye
Now that you have mastered the prefixes, combining forms, and suffixes ar = pertaining to
for medical terminology used to describe the special sensory organs of sight
and hearing, you have the ability to dissect and build a large number of terms 12. iridectomy irid/ectomy irid = iris excision of the iris
related to these special sensory systems. (ĬR-ĭ-DĔK-tō-mē) ectomy = surgical
Below is a list of common medical terms related to the study and treat- removal; excision
ment of the eye and the ear. For each term, a dissection has been provided, 13. iridoplasty irid/o/plasty irid = iris surgical repair of the
along with the meaning of each word element and the definition of the term (ĬR-ĭd-ō-PLĂS-tē) plasty = surgical repair iris
as a whole. 14. iridoplegia irid/o/pleg/ia irid = iris condition of iris
(ĬR-ĭd-ō-PLĒ-jē-ă) pleg = paralysis paralysis
ia = condition
15. iridopexy irid/o/pexy irid = iris surgical fixation of the
Term Dissection Word Part/Meaning Term Meaning
(ĬR-ĭd-ō-PĔK-sē) pexy = surgical fixation iris
Note: For simplification, combining vowels have been omitted from the Word Part/Meaning column.
16. iritis ir/itis ir = iris inflammation of the iris
1. audiogram audi/o/gram audi = hearing record of hearing (ĭr-Ī-tĭs) itis = inflammation
(AW-dē-ō-grăm) gram = record; image
17. keratometer kerat/o/meter kerat = cornea instrument used to
2. audiologist audi/o/logist audi = hearing specialist in the study (kĕr-ă-TŎM-ĕ-ter) meter = instrument measure the cornea
(AW-dē-ŎL-ō-jĭst) logist = specialist in the and treatment of used to measure
study and treatment of hearing
18. keratometry kerat/o/metry kerat = cornea measurement of the
3. audiology audi/o/logy audi = hearing study of hearing (kĕr-ă-TŎM-ĕ-trē) metry = measurement cornea
(AW-dē-ŎL-ō-jē) logy = study of
19. myringectomy myring/ectomy myring = tympanic excision of the eardrum
4. audiometer audi/o/meter audi = hearing instrument used to (mĭr-ĭn-JĔK-tō-mē) membrane; eardrum
(AW-dē-ŎM-ĕ-ter) meter = instrument measure hearing ectomy = surgical
used to measure removal; excision
5. audiometry audi/o/metry audi = hearing measurement of 20. myringitis myring/itis myring = eardrum inflammation of the
(AW-dē-ŎM-ĕ-trē) metry = measurement hearing (mĭr-ĭn-JĪ-tĭs) itis = inflammation eardrum
6. blepharitis blephar/itis blephar = eyelid inflammation of the 21. myringoplasty myring/o/plasty myring = tympanic surgical repair of the
(BLĔF-ă-RĪ-tĭs) itis = inflammation eyelid (mĭr-ĬNG-gō-plăst-ē) membrane; eardrum eardrum
plasty = surgical repair
7. blepharoplasty blephar/o/plasty blephar = eyelid surgical repair of the
(BLĔF-ă-rō-PLĂS-tē) plasty = surgical repair eyelid 22. myringotomy myring/o/tomy myring = tympanic incision to the eardrum
(mĭr-ĭng-GŎT-ō-mē) membrane; eardrum
8. blepharoplegia blephar/o/pleg/ia blephar = eyelid condition of eyelid
tomy = incision; cut into
(BLĔF-ă-rō-PLĒ-jē-ă) pleg = paralysis paralysis
ia = condition 23. ocular ocul/ar ocul = eye pertaining to the eye
(ŎK-yū-lăr) ar = pertaining to
9. blepharoptosis blephar/o/ptosis blephar = eyelid drooping of the eyelid
(BLĔF-ă-rŏp-TŌ-sĭs) ptosis = drooping; 24. oculomycosis ocul/o/myc/osis ocul = eye abnormal condition of
downward (ŎK-yū-lō-mī-KŌ-sĭs) myc = fungus fungus in the eye
displacement osis = abnormal
condition
10. blepharospasm blephar/o/spasm blephar = eyelid involuntary muscle
(BLĔF-ă-rō-SPĂZM) spasm = involuntary contraction of the 25. ophthalmic ophthalm/ic ophthalm = eye pertaining to the eye
muscle contraction eyelid (ŏf-THĂL-mĭk) ic = pertaining to
Prefixes = Green Root Words = Red Suffixes = Blue Prefixes = Green Root Words = Red Suffixes = Blue

248 Medical Terminology: Mastering the Basics Chapter 6 Special Sensory Organs: Eye and Ear 249
This sample chapter is for review purposes only. Copyright © The Goodheart-Willcox Co., Inc. All rights reserved.

Term Dissection Word Part/Meaning Term Meaning Term Dissection Word Part/Meaning Term Meaning
26. ophthalmologist ophthalm/o/logist ophthalm = eye specialist in the study 41. retinal retin/al retin = retina pertaining to the retina
(ŎF-thăl-MŎL-ō-jĭst) logist = specialist in the and treatment of the (RĔT-ĭ-năl) al = pertaining to
study and treatment of eye
42. retinitis retin/itis retin = retina inflammation of the
27. ophthalmology ophthalm/o/logy ophthalm = eye study of the eye (RĔT-ĭ-NĪ-tĭs) itis = inflammation retina
(ŎF-thăl-MŎL-ō-jē) logy = study of
43. scleral scler/al scler = sclera pertaining to the sclera
28. ophthalmoscope ophthalm/o/scope ophthalm = eye instrument used to (SKLĔR-ăl) al = pertaining to
(ŏf-THĂL-mō-skōp) scope = instrument observe the eye
44. scleritis scler/itis scler = sclera inflammation of the
used to observe
(sklĕ-RĬ-tĭs) itis = inflammation sclera
29. optic opt/ic opt = eye; vision pertaining to the eye or
45. sclerotomy scler/o/tomy scler = sclera incision to the sclera
(ŎP-tĭk) ic = pertaining to vision
(sklĕ-RŎT-ō-mē) tomy = incision; cut
30. otalgia ot/algia ot = ear pain in the ear into
(ō-TĂL-jē-ă) algia = pain
46. tympanectomy tympan/ectomy tympan = eardrum excision of the eardrum
31. otitis ot/itis ot = ear inflammation of the ear (tĭm-păn-ĔK-tō-mē) ectomy = excision;
(ō-TĪ-tĭs) itis = inflammation surgical removal
32. otologist ot/o/logist ot = ear specialist in the study 47. tympanic tympan/ic tympan = tympanic pertaining to the
(ō-TŎL-ō-jĭst) logist = specialist in the and treatment of the (tĭm-PĂN-ĭk) membrane; eardrum eardrum
study and treatment of ear ic = pertaining to
33. otology ot/o/logy ot = ear study of the ear 48. tympanometer tympan/o/meter tympan = tympanic instrument used to
(ō-TŎL-ō-jē) logy = study of (TĬM-pă-NŎM-ĕ-tĕr) membrane; eardrum measure the eardrum
meter = instrument
34. otomycosis ot/o/myc/osis ot = ear abnormal condition of
used to measure
(Ō-tō-mī-KŌ-sĭs) myc = fungus fungus in the ear
osis = abnormal 49. tympanometry tympan/o/metry tympan = tympanic measurement of the
condition (TĬM-pă-NŎM-ĕ-trē) membrane; eardrum eardrum
metry = measurement
35. otoplasty ot/o/plasty ot = ear surgical repair of the
(Ō-tō-PLĂS-tē) plasty = surgical repair ear 50. tympanoplasty tympan/o/plasty tympan = tympanic surgical repair of the
(TĬM-păn-ō-PLĂS-tē) membrane; eardrum eardrum
36. otorrhea ot/o/rrhea ot = ear discharge from the ear
plasty = surgical repair
(ō-tō-RĒ-ă) rrhea = discharge; flow
51. tympanorrhexis tympan/o/rrhexis tympan = tympanic rupture of the eardrum
37. otoscope ot/o/scope ot = ear instrument used to
(TĬM-păn-ŏr-RĔKS-ĭs) membrane; eardrum
(Ō-tō-skōp) scope = instrument observe the ear
rrhexis = rupture
used to observe
52. tympanostomy tympan/o/stomy tympan = tympanic new opening in the
38. otoscopy ot/o/scopy ot = ear process of observing
(TĬM-păn-ŎS-tō-mē) membrane; eardrum eardrum
(ō-TŎS-kō-pē) scopy = process of the ear
stomy = new opening
observing
Prefixes = Green Root Words = Red Suffixes = Blue
39. paraocular para/ocul/ar para = near; beside pertaining to near the
(PĂR-ă-ŎK-yū-lăr) ocul = eye eye
ar = pertaining to
Using the pronunciation guide from the Break It Down chart above, prac-
40. periocular peri/ocul/ar peri = around pertaining to around tice saying each medical term aloud. To hear the pronunciation of each term,
(PĔR-ē-ŎK-yū-lăr) ocul = eye the eye go to the Pronounce It activity at the G-W companion website.
ar = pertaining to
Prefixes = Green Root Words = Red Suffixes = Blue

250 Medical Terminology: Mastering the Basics Chapter 6 Special Sensory Organs: Eye and Ear 251
This sample chapter is for review purposes only. Copyright © The Goodheart-Willcox Co., Inc. All rights reserved.

Audio Activity: Pronounce It Audio Activity: Spell It

Directions: At the companion website, listen as each medical term listed below Directions: Cover the medical terms in the Pronounce It activity with a sheet of
is pronounced. Practice pronouncing the terms until you are comfortable saying paper. At the companion website, listen as the terms are read aloud. Correctly
them aloud. spell each term below.

audiogram myringectomy otoscope 1. ________________________________ 27. ________________________________

(AW-dē-ō-grăm) (mĭr-ĭn-JĔK-tō-mē) (Ō-tō-skōp)
2. ________________________________ 28. ________________________________
audiologist myringitis otoscopy
(AW-dē-ŎL-ō-jĭst) (mĭr-ĭn-JĪ-tĭs) (ō-TŎS-kō-pē) 3. ________________________________ 29. ________________________________
audiology myringoplasty paraocular 4. ________________________________ 30. ________________________________
(AW-dē-ŎL-ō-jē) (mĭr-ĬNG-gō-plăst-ē) (PĂR-ă-ŎK-yū-lăr) 5. ________________________________ 31. ________________________________
audiometer myringotomy periocular
6. ________________________________ 32. ________________________________
(AW-dē-ŎM-ĕ-ter) (mĭr-ĭng-GŎT-ō-mē) (PĔR-ē-ŎK-yū-lăr)
audiometry ocular retinal 7. ________________________________ 33. ________________________________
(AW-dē-ŎM-ĕ-trē) (ŎK-yū-lăr) (RĔT-ĭ-năl) 8. ________________________________ 34. ________________________________
blepharitis oculomycosis retinitis 9. ________________________________ 35. ________________________________
(BLĔF-ă-RĪ-tĭs) (ŎK-yū-lō-mī-KŌ-sĭs) (RĔT-ĭ-NĪ-tĭs)
10. ________________________________ 36. ________________________________
blepharoplasty ophthalmic scleral
(BLĔF-ă-rō-PLĂS-tē) (ŏf-THĂL-mĭk) (SKLĔR-ăl) 11. ________________________________ 37. ________________________________
blepharoplegia ophthalmologist scleritis 12. ________________________________ 38. ________________________________
(BLĔF-ă-rō-PLĒ-jē-ă) (ŎF-thăl-MŎL-ō-jĭst) (sklĕ-RĬ-tĭs)
13. ________________________________ 39. ________________________________
blepharoptosis ophthalmology sclerotomy
(BLĔF-ă-rŏp-TŌ-sĭs) (ŎF-thăl-MŎL-ō-jē) (sklĕ-RŎT-ō-mē) 14. ________________________________ 40. ________________________________
blepharospasm ophthalmoscope tympanectomy 15. ________________________________ 41. ________________________________
(BLĔF-ă-rō-SPĂZM) (ŏf-THĂL-mō-skōp) (tĭm-păn-ĔK-tō-mē) 16. ________________________________ 42. ________________________________
extraocular optic tympanic 17. ________________________________ 43. ________________________________
(ĔKS-tră-ŎK-yū-lăr) (ŎP-tĭk) (tĭm-PĂN-ĭk)
18. ________________________________ 44. ________________________________
iridectomy otalgia tympanometer
(ĬR-ĭ-DĔK-tō-mē) (ō-TĂL-jē-ă) (TĬM-pă-NŎM-ĕ-tĕr) 19. ________________________________ 45. ________________________________
iridoplasty otitis tympanometry 20. ________________________________ 46. ________________________________
(ĬR-ĭd-ō-PLĂS-tē) (ō-TĪ-tĭs) (TĬM-pă-NŎM-ĕ-trē)
21. ________________________________ 47. ________________________________
iridoplegia otologist tympanoplasty
(ĬR-ĭd-ō-PLĒ-jē-ă) (ō-TŎL-ō-jĭst) (TĬM-păn-ō-PLĂS-tē) 22. ________________________________ 48 . ________________________________
iridopexy otology tympanorrhexis 23. ________________________________ 49. ________________________________
(ĬR-ĭd-ō-PĔK-sē) (ō-TŎL-ō-jē) (TĬM-păn-ŏr-RĔKS-ĭs) 24. ________________________________ 50. ________________________________
iritis otomycosis tympanostomy
25. ________________________________ 51. ________________________________
(ĭr-Ī-tĭs) (Ō-tō-mī-KŌ-sĭs) (TĬM-păn-ŎS-tō-mē)
keratometer otoplasty 26. ________________________________ 52. ________________________________
(kĕr-ă-TŎM-ĕ-ter) (Ō-tō-PLĂS-tē)
keratometry otorrhea
(kĕr-ă-TŎM-ĕ-trē) (ō-tō-RĒ-ă)

252 Medical Terminology: Mastering the Basics Chapter 6 Special Sensory Organs: Eye and Ear 253
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Assessment Medical Term Dissection

Break It Down 7. paraocular p a r a o c u l a r
Directions: Dissect each medical term below into its word elements by placing
a slash between each word part (prefix, root word, combining vowel, and suffix).
Definition: ___________________________________________________________________________________________
Then define each term.
_______________________________________________________________________________________________________
Example:
Medical Term: oculomycosis
8. myringectomy m y r i n g e c t o m y
Dissection: ocul/o/mycosis
Definition: abnormal condition of fungus in the eye Definition: ___________________________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________________________________
Medical Term Dissection

1. blepharoptosis b l e p h a r o p t o s i s 9. optic o p t i c

Definition: ___________________________________________________________________________________________ Definition: ___________________________________________________________________________________________

_______________________________________________________________________________________________________ _______________________________________________________________________________________________________

2. scleritis s c l e r i t i s 10. otorrhea o t o r r h e a

Definition: ___________________________________________________________________________________________ Definition: ___________________________________________________________________________________________

_______________________________________________________________________________________________________ _______________________________________________________________________________________________________

3. opthalmoscope o p t h a l m o s c o p e 11. extraocular e x t r a o c u l a r

Definition: ___________________________________________________________________________________________ Definition: ___________________________________________________________________________________________

_______________________________________________________________________________________________________ _______________________________________________________________________________________________________

4. tympanic t y m p a n i c 12. iridectomy i r i d e c t o m y

Definition: ___________________________________________________________________________________________ Definition: ___________________________________________________________________________________________

_______________________________________________________________________________________________________ _______________________________________________________________________________________________________

5. audiometry a u d i o m e t r y 13. retinal r e t i n a l

Definition: ___________________________________________________________________________________________ Definition: ___________________________________________________________________________________________

_______________________________________________________________________________________________________ _______________________________________________________________________________________________________

6. iridoplasty i r i d o p l a s t y 14. periocular p e r i o c u l a r

Definition: ___________________________________________________________________________________________ Definition: ___________________________________________________________________________________________

_______________________________________________________________________________________________________ _______________________________________________________________________________________________________

254 Medical Terminology: Mastering the Basics Chapter 6 Special Sensory Organs: Eye and Ear 255
This sample chapter is for review purposes only. Copyright © The Goodheart-Willcox Co., Inc. All rights reserved.

Medical Term Dissection Assessment

15. tympanorrhexis t y m p a n o r r h e x i s
Build It
Directions: Build the medical terms that match the definitions provided below by
Definition: ___________________________________________________________________________________________ supplying the correct word elements.
_______________________________________________________________________________________________________
P (Prefixes) = Green
RW (Root Words) = Red
16. blepharoplegia b l e p h a r o p l e g i a S (Suffixes) = Blue
CV (Combining Vowel) = Purple

Definition: ___________________________________________________________________________________________ 1. record of hearing

_______________________________________________________________________________________________________
RW CV S
17. iridopexy i r i d o p e x y
2. excision of the eardrum (two possible answers)
Definition: ___________________________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________________________________ RW S

18. keratometry k e r a t o m e t r y
RW S
Definition: ___________________________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________________________________ 3. instrument used to measure hearing

19. otitis o t i t i s RW CV S

Definition: ___________________________________________________________________________________________ 4. rupture of the eardrum

_______________________________________________________________________________________________________
RW CV S
20. otoscope o t o s c o p e
5. surgical repair of the eyelid
Definition: ___________________________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________________________________
RW CV S

6. excision of the iris

SCORECARD: How Did You Do?

RW S
Number correct (_____), divided by 20 (_____), multiplied by 100 equals _____ (your score)

7. study of the eye

RW CV S

256 Medical Terminology: Mastering the Basics Chapter 6 Special Sensory Organs: Eye and Ear 257
This sample chapter is for review purposes only. Copyright © The Goodheart-Willcox Co., Inc. All rights reserved.

8. inflammation of the iris Diseases and Disorders

Diseases and disorders of the special sensory organs range from the mild
RW S
to the severe, and they have a wide variety of causes. We will briefly examine
some problems that commonly affect the eye and the ear.
9. new opening in the eardrum
The Eye
RW CV S The eyes are among the most delicate organs of the body. Some eye condi-
tions, such as minor infections, are short lived. Others require corrective treat-
10. instrument used to measure the cornea ment such as eyeglasses, contact lenses, or surgery. Left untreated, serious eye
conditions—especially those linked with systemic pathology (for example,
diabetic retinopathy)—can result in permanent loss of vision.
RW CV S
Astigmatism
11. involuntary muscle contraction of the eyelid Astigmatism (ă-STĬG-mă-tĭzm) is a common condition that causes blurred
vision due either to an irregularly shaped cornea or curvature of the lens
(Figure 6.3). An irregular-shaped cornea or lens prevents light from properly
RW CV S
focusing on the retina. As a result, vision becomes distorted or blurred at any
distance, causing eye discomfort and headaches.
12. inflammation of the eardrum Astigmatism is often present at birth and may occur in conjunction with
myopia or hyperopia (Figure 6.4, on the next page). Myopia (mī-ŌP-ē-ă), more
RW S commonly known as nearsightedness, is a condition in which close objects are
seen clearly, but objects farther away appear blurred. Hyperopia (HĪ-pĕr-ŌP-ē-ă),
or farsightedness, is a condition in which distant objects are usually seen clearly,
13. condition of eyelid paralysis
but close ones do not come into proper focus. Together, myopia and hyperopia
are referred to as refractive errors because they affect how the eyes refract, or bend,
RW CV RW S light. The specific cause of astigmatism is unknown.

14. pain in the ear

RW S
Cornea Astigmatic
cornea
Iris
15. specialist in the study and treatment of the ear

RW CV S

Pupil

SCORECARD: How Did You Do?

Number correct (_____), divided by 15 (_____), multiplied by 100 equals _____ (your score)

A. Normal Vision B. Astigmatic Vision

Figure 6.3 Astigmatism, the result of an irregularly shaped cornea or curvature of the lens, prevents light rays from
properly focusing on the retina, causing blurred or distorted vision.

258 Medical Terminology: Mastering the Basics Chapter 6 Special Sensory Organs: Eye and Ear 259
This sample chapter is for review purposes only. Copyright © The Goodheart-Willcox Co., Inc. All rights reserved.

Focusing point Cataract Diabetic Retinopathy

on retina Refraction of
light rays A cataract (KĂT-ă-răct) is a clouding of the Diabetic retinopathy (RĔT-ĭ-NŎP-ă-thē) is a serious complication of dia-
lens of the eye (Figure 6.5). The lens of the eye betes marked by progressive damage to the blood vessels of the retina. It is a
is normally clear. It functions like the lens of a chronic condition that can develop in patients with uncontrolled diabetes. In
camera, focusing light as it travels to the retina the early stages of diabetic retinopathy, patients are often asymptomatic (with-
at the back of the eye. Normally, the shape of out symptoms). As the condition progresses, it may result in blurred or fluctu-
Light the lens is able to change, allowing the eye to ating vision (sight that “comes and goes”), floaters (small spots or specks that
focus on an object, whether it is close or far float around in the field of vision), dark or empty areas in the vision, or dif-
away. With age, the lens begins to break down ficulty with color perception. Typically, diabetic retinopathy affects both eyes.
and becomes cloudy. As a result, vision may
Glaucoma
Retina become blurred.
Glaucoma (glaw-KŌ-mă) is a group of eye conditions that cause optic
A. Normal vision:
nerve damage, which may lead to loss of vision. The optic nerve carries visual
Light rays focus on the retina. information from the eye to the brain. In most cases, damage to this nerve is
the result of abnormally high intraocular pressure (IOP), or pressure within the
eye. Because glaucoma damage is gradual, the patient may not notice any loss
Focusing point
in front of retina Refraction of of vision until the disease has reached an advanced stage. Glaucoma is a major
light rays Clear lens cause of blindness in the United States.
Macular Degeneration
Macular degeneration is a leading cause of vision loss among Americans 60
years of age and older. In macular degeneration, the central portion of the retina,
Light called the macular area, degenerates over time, resulting in loss of central vision
Normal (Figure 6.6). Varying degrees of peripheral vision remain, but those afflicted
with macular degeneration are often unable to read or drive, and other activities
of daily living are severely restricted due to the loss of full, clear vision.

B. Myopia (nearsightedness):
Light rays focus in front of the retina.

Focusing point
behind retina Refraction of
light rays

Cataract
Light

How a scene appears How a scene appears

C. Hyperopia (farsightedness):
Light rays focus beyond the retina.
Figure 6.4 Myopia and hyperopia
Cloudy lens with normal vision with vision affected by
macular degeneration
Alila Medical Media/Shutterstock.com
Photo credit: Smereka/Shutterstock.com. Concept adapted from Lighthouse International;
Figure 6.5 A cataract is a clouding of the lens of the http://lighthouse.org/about-low-vision-blindness/vision-disorders/age-related-macular-degeneration-amd/
eye. Cataracts are typically associated with aging. Figure 6.6 Macular degeneration

260 Medical Terminology: Mastering the Basics Chapter 6 Special Sensory Organs: Eye and Ear 261
This sample chapter is for review purposes only. Copyright © The Goodheart-Willcox Co., Inc. All rights reserved.

Presbyopia Otitis Media Auditory

Presbyopia (PRĔZ-bē-ŌP-ē-ă) is a condition in which the lens of the eye Otitis media (ō-TĪ-tĭs MĒ-dē-ă) is a bac- bones
gradually loses its elasticity, or the ability to change its shape, making it dif- terial or viral infection of the middle ear
ficult to see objects up close. Presbyopia occurs naturally with age; thus, it (Figure 6.8). It is more common in children
is often called the “aging eye condition.” As the lens of the eye becomes less than adults. The otalgia (ō-TĂL-gē-ă), or
flexible, it no longer can change shape to focus on images at close range. As a ear pain, that accompanies otitis media is
result, objects appear out of focus. due to inflammation and buildup of fluid
in the middle ear. Persistent ear infections Eardrum
The Ear can cause hearing problems and other seri-
ous complications. Eustachian
Infection or disease of the ear can affect hearing, balance, or both. Certain tube
conditions of the ear can cause hearing disorders or deafness. We will take a Presbycusis
brief look at some of the more common conditions. Presbycusis (PRĔZ-bē-KŪ-sĭs) is the
Ménière’s Disease gradual loss of hearing that occurs as
people age. Although there is no single A. Normal middle ear
Ménière’s (mĕn-YĔRZ) disease is a chronic inner-ear disorder that affects
known cause for presbycusis, it is most
balance and hearing (Figure 6.7). The inner ear contains semicircular canals,
commonly associated with degenerative
small fluid-filled tubes that help your body maintain its position and bal-
changes to the inner ear. One of the hall-
ance. Every time you move your head, the fluid within the canals stimulates
marks of presbycusis is difficulty hearing
tiny hairs lining each canal. These hairs interpret the movement of the fluid
high-frequency sound, such as that pro-
and transmit neural impulses to the brain. The cause of Ménière’s disease
duced by someone talking, particularly
is unknown. Symptoms include dizziness or a sensation of spinning called
amid background noise. Genetic factors as
vertigo (VĔR-tĭ-gō or vĕr-TĒ-gō); tinnitus (TĬN-ĭ-tŭs or tĭ-NĪ-tŭs), commonly
well as repeated or prolonged exposure to
known as “ringing in the ears“; pressure within the ear; and hearing loss.
loud noises can contribute to age-related
hearing loss.
Infected
Endolymphatic sac fluid in
(Regulates fluid volume and Swelling
distorts
Procedures and Treatments middle ear
pressure and immune Backed-up
Balance response of the inner ear) balance fluid leads
canal
We will now briefly review common
information. to swelling
diagnostic tests and procedures used to
and pressure. B. Otitis media
help identify disorders and diseases of the
eyes and ears, as well as some common Figure 6.8 Middle ear infection
therapeutic treatments.

The Eye
A variety of procedures are used to test visual acuity and help diagnose
diseases and disorders of the eye, and rapidly developing technologies have
Distorted brought about cutting-edge treatments. For the purpose of this brief overview,
Hearing Hearing and Swelling distorts information
canal balance nerve sound information. travels to brain.
we will present a few common procedures and treatments.
Visual Acuity Test
A. Healthy inner ear B. Ménière’s disease The visual acuity (ă-KYŪ-ĭ-tē) test is a routine part of an eye examination.
The Snellen chart, a standardized eye chart, is used to assess eyesight clarity
Figure 6.7 Ménière’s disease and detect problems with vision (Figure 6.9).

262 Medical Terminology: Mastering the Basics Chapter 6 Special Sensory Organs: Eye and Ear 263
This sample chapter is for review purposes only. Copyright © The Goodheart-Willcox Co., Inc. All rights reserved.

During an eye exam, the patient covers one eye at a

Tissue
time and reads aloud the smallest line of letters that he or removed
she can see on the Snellen chart. Visual acuity is expressed
as a fraction. The top number refers to the distance from
which the patient reads the chart, typically 20 feet. The
bottom number indicates the distance from which a per-
son with normal vision can read the line. Vision of 20/20
is considered normal. A reading of 20/30 indicates that the
line read by the patient read at a distance of 20 feet away
can be read by a person with normal vision at a distance
of 30 feet away.
Abnormal results of a visual acuity test may indicate a
need for glasses or contact lenses due to an eye condition that
needs further evaluation by an ophthalmologist, such as astig- Figure 6.10 Blepharoplasty is the surgical repair of drooping eyelids.
matism, myopia, or hyperopia. Besides attempting to read the
smallest line of type on the Snellen chart, the patient may be
asked to read letters or numbers from a card held 14 inches LASIK
from the face in a test of near vision. For very young children LASIK is an acronym for laser-
or patients who cannot read, visual acuity is tested with pic- assisted in situ (SĪ-tū) keratomileusis
tures instead of letters. (KĔR-ă-tō-mī-LŪ-sĭs), a type of refrac-
Blepharoplasty tive surgery performed to correct
myopia, hyperopia, or astigmatism
Blepharoplasty (BLĔF-ă-rō-PLĂS-tē) is the surgical repair
(Figure 6.11). Other common names
of drooping eyelids (Figure 6.10). It can be both a functional
for LASIK include laser eye surgery
(necessary) and a cosmetic surgery. During the procedure,
and laser vision correction. The proce-
excess skin and fat are removed or repositioned, and sur-
dure changes the shape of the cornea
rounding muscles and tendons may be reinforced.
so that light rays entering the eye
With age, the eyelids stretch and muscular support
focus more precisely on the retina
weakens, resulting in excess fat above and below the
rather than at some point before or
eyelids. This causes sagging eyebrows, drooping upper
beyond the retina. LASIK eliminates
lids, and puffy “bags” under the eyes. Severely sagging
or reduces the need for eyeglasses or
skin around the eyes can impair peripheral (side) vision.
contact lenses.
Blepharoplasty can reduce or eliminate impaired vision
and improve appearance. Tonometry
Fluorescein Angiography Tonometry (tō-NŎM-ĕ-trē) is a
test for measuring pressure within
Fluorescein (flor-ĔS-ē-ĭn) angiography (ĂN-jē-ŎG-ră-fē)
the eyes. It is used to screen for glau-
Radu Bercan/Shutterstock.com is a photographic method of imaging the retina. A fluores-
coma. There are several tonomet-
Figure 6.9 The Snellen chart is used cein dye (an orange fluorescent dye) is injected into a vein
to test visual acuity. ric methods of glaucoma testing. In
in the patient’s arm. As the dye circulates throughout the
one method, the surface of the eye
body, multiple photographs are taken of the blood vessels
is numbed with eyedrops to pre-
in the eye. Fluorescein angiography is used to diagnose and document eye
vent discomfort. Then an orange or
disease and to monitor response to therapy. It aids the physician in diag-
yellow fluorescein dye is applied to
nosing retinal and vascular disease, diabetes, macular degeneration, intra-
the eye with drops or a special strip
ocular tumors, and other conditions.
of paper. A low-power microscope Figure 6.11 Laser-assisted in situ keratomileusis, more commonly
called a slit lamp is moved toward the known as LASIK surgery.

264 Medical Terminology: Mastering the Basics Chapter 6 Special Sensory Organs: Eye and Ear 265
This sample chapter is for review purposes only. Copyright © The Goodheart-Willcox Co., Inc. All rights reserved.
eye until it makes very light contact with the cornea, where it records a pres-
sure reading. Another form of tonometric testing is a noncontact method that
uses a puff of air to record eye pressure. A tiny device barely touches the out-
side of the eye and instantly records eye pressure by analyzing how the light
reflections change as the air strikes the eye.
The Ear
In this section, you will learn about some common diagnostic technologies
and treatment methods related to the special sensory organ of hearing and
balance.
Audiometry
An audiometry exam is a hearing test that measures a person’s abil-
ity to hear different sounds, pitches, and frequencies (Figure 6.12). Sounds
vary based on their intensity (loudness) and tone (the speed of sound-wave
vibrations). Hearing occurs when sound waves stimulate the nerves of the
inner ear and then travel along neural pathways to the brain, where they are
interpreted.
During an audiometry test, the patient wears headphones that cover both
ears to eliminate outside noise. The headphones are connected to an audiometer
(AW-dē-ŎM-ĕ-ter) that produces a series of tones at different frequencies (high
or low pitches) and varying intensities (loud or soft). The patient presses a but-
ton or raises a hand to indicate when a tone is heard. Audiometry measures
the ability of the patient to discriminate between different sound intensities,
Maica/istockphoto.com
Figure 6.12 Audiometry
266 Medical Terminology: Mastering the Basics
recognize different pitches, and distinguish speech from background noise.
The test evaluates hearing loss and aids the physician in determining whether
a patient needs a hearing aid.
Myringotomy
A myringotomy (mĭr-ĭng-GŎT-ō-mē), also called a tympanostomy
(TĬM-păn-ŎS-tō-mē), is a surgical procedure in which a small incision is
made in the tympanic membrane (eardrum) to relieve pressure and inflam-
mation caused by fluid accumulation in the middle ear (Figure 6.13).
Tympanostomy tubes, small tubes that are open at both ends, are inserted
into the surgically created opening. The procedure allows drainage of fluid
or pus (effusion) and provides ventilation to the middle ear in patients suf-
fering from otitis media. The tubes are left in place until they fall out by
themselves or are removed by a physician.
Myringoplasty
Myringoplasty (mĭr-ĬNG-gō-plăst-ē), also known as tympanoplasty
(TĬM-păn-ō-PLĂS-tē), is the surgical repair of a perforated tympanic mem-
brane (hole in the eardrum). A perforated eardrum is usually caused by an
infection in the middle ear that burst through the eardrum, but it may also
result from trauma. A perforated tympanic membrane may lead to repeated
ear infections and hearing loss. Surgery can prevent recurring ear infection
and sometimes improve hearing.
Eardrum
Eustachian
tube Tube
Figure 6.13 Myringotomy
Chapter 6 Special Sensory Organs: Eye and Ear 267
This sample chapter is for review purposes only. Copyright © The Goodheart-Willcox Co., Inc. All rights reserved.

Assessment Assessment

Multiple Choice: Diseases and Disorders Multiple Choice: Procedures and Treatments
Directions: Write the letter of the disease or disorder that matches each numbered definition below. Directions: Write the letter of the diagnostic procedure or therapeutic treatment that matches each numbered
definition below.
____ 1. nearsightedness ____ 9. a group of eye conditions that cause optic
a. tinnitus c. hyperopia nerve damage, which may lead to loss of ____ 1. laser eye surgery ____ 5. hearing test that measures a person’s
b. myopia d. vertigo vision a. blepharoplasty ability to hear different sounds, pitches, and
a. cataract b. LASIK frequencies
____ 2. bacterial or viral infection of the middle ear
b. glaucoma c. myringotomy a. audiometry
a. presbycusis
c. astigmatism d. myringoplasty b. tonometry
b. otitis media
d. diabetic retinopathy c. visual acuity testing
c. presbyopia ____ 2. surgical repair of drooping eyelids
d. fluorescein angiography
d. Ménière’s disease ____ 10. gradual loss of hearing that occurs as people a. blepharoplasty
age b. LASIK ____ 6. surgical repair of a perforated tympanic
____ 3. ringing in the ears
a. presbycusis c. myringotomy membrane
a. tinnitus c. hyperopia
b. otitis media d. myringoplasty a. blepharoplasty
b. myopia d. vertigo
c. presbyopia b. LASIK
d. Ménière’s disease ____ 3. surgical procedure in which a small incision
____ 4. complication of diabetes that affects the eyes c. myringotomy
is made in the tympanic membrane to
a. cataract d. myringoplasty
____ 11. clouding of the lens of the eye relieve pressure and inflammation caused by
b. glaucoma
a. cataract accumulation of fluid in the middle ear ____ 7. a routine part of an eye exam to detect vision
c. astigmatism
b. glaucoma a. blepharoplasty problems
d. diabetic retinopathy
c. astigmatism b. LASIK a. audiometry
____ 5. chronic inner ear disorder that affects balance d. diabetic retinopathy c. myringotomy b. tonometry
and hearing d. myringoplasty c. visual acuity testing
____ 12. condition in which the lens of the eye naturally
a. presbycusis d. fluorescein angiography
loses its elasticity or its ability to change its ____ 4. glaucoma screening test that measures
b. otitis media
shape, making it difficult to see objects up pressure within the eyes ____ 8. photographic technique for imaging the retina
c. presbyopia
close a. audiometry a. audiometry
d. Ménière’s disease
a. presbycusis b. tonometry b. tonometry
____ 6. dizziness or sensation of spinning b. otitis media c. visual acuity testing c. visual acuity testing
a. tinnitus c. hyperopia c. presbyopia d. fluorescein angiography d. fluorescein angiography
b. myopia d. vertigo d. Ménière’s disease

____ 7. ear pain due to inflammation and buildup of ____ 13. a common condition that causes blurred
fluid in the middle ear vision due to an irregularly shaped cornea or
SCORECARD: How Did You Do?
a. otalgia curvature of the lens
b. otitis media a. cataract Number correct (_____), divided by 8 (_____), multiplied by 100 equals _____ (your score)
c. presbyopia b. glaucoma
d. Ménière’s disease c. astigmatism
d. diabetic retinopathy
____ 8. farsightedness
a. tinnitus c. hyperopia
b. myopia d. vertigo

SCORECARD: How Did You Do?

Number correct (_____), divided by 13 (_____), multiplied by 100 equals _____ (your score)

268 Medical Terminology: Mastering the Basics Chapter 6 Special Sensory Organs: Eye and Ear 269
This sample chapter is for review purposes only. Copyright © The Goodheart-Willcox Co., Inc. All rights reserved.

Analyzing the Intern Experience Assessment

In the Intern Experience described at the beginning of this chapter, we met Interpret Juan Rodriguez’s Chart Note
Debra, an intern with University Eye and Ear Specialists. Debra met Mrs. Rodri-
Directions: After listening to the dictated recording and reading the chart note on Juan Rodriguez,
guez and her four-year-old son, Juan, when the young boy was brought to the
provide the medical term that matches each definition below.
doctor’s office because of severe otalgia (ear pain).
A physician examined Juan and obtained his personal and family health his- Example: discharge from the ear Answer: otorrhea
tory from Mrs. Rodriguez. The doctor then made a medical diagnosis and provided
Juan’s mother with a treatment plan. Later, the physician made a dictated record- 1. specialist in the study of the ears, nose, and throat ________________________________________________
ing of the patient’s health information, which was subsequently transcribed into a
chart note. 2. pertaining to the eardrum ________________________________________________
We will now learn more about Juan’s condition from a clinical perspective, 3. measurement of the eardrum ________________________________________________
interpreting the medical terms in his chart note as we analyze the scenario pre-
4. bacterial or viral infection of the middle ear ________________________________________________
sented in the Intern Experience.

Audio Activity: Juan Rodriguez’s Chart Note

SCORECARD: How Did You Do?
Directions: At the companion website, listen and read along as the physician Number correct (_____), divided by 4 (_____), multiplied by 100 equals _____ (your score)
dictates Juan Rodriguez’s chart note, shown below. Then do the exercise that
appears after the chart note.

Working with Medical Records

CHART NOTE
In this activity, you will interpret the medical records (chart notes) of
Patient Name: Rodriguez, Juan patients with health conditions related to the special senses system. These
ID Number: JR4239 examples illustrate typical medical records prepared in a real-world healthcare
Examination Date: February 6, 20xx environment. To interpret these chart notes, you will apply your knowledge
of word elements (prefixes, combining forms, and suffixes), diseases and dis-
SUBJECTIVE
orders, and procedures and treatments related to the special sensory organs.
This 4-year-old male patient was brought in by his mother, who states he had a cold
last week. He woke up this morning screaming, felt hot, and was tugging on his left
ear. This is the third episode this year. Mother concerned with potential hearing loss.
Audio Activity: Maria Jacobowitz’s Chart Note
OBJECTIVE
Temperature is 102.5° F and pulse is 100. Left tympanic membrane is dull, red, and Directions: At the companion website, listen and read along as the physician
bulging. Eyes are clear. Nose and throat clear. Neck is supple without adenopathy dictates the following chart note on Maria Jacobowitz. Then do the exercise that
(disease of gland tissue). Lungs are clear. appears after the chart note.
ASSESSMENT
Left acute otitis media.
PLAN
Augmentin® (penicillin) 250 mg t.i.d. (three times a day) x 10 days. Recheck at end
of treatment. Due to her concern with a hearing loss, I discussed a tympanometry
evaluation and/or referral to an otorhinolaryngologist (ENT), an ear, nose, and
throat specialist.

270 Medical Terminology: Mastering the Basics Chapter 6 Special Sensory Organs: Eye and Ear 271
This sample chapter is for review purposes only. Copyright © The Goodheart-Willcox Co., Inc. All rights reserved.

CHART NOTE Chapter Review

Patient Name: Jacobowitz, Maria
ID Number: MJ3321
Examination Date: August 12, 20xx Word Elements Summary
SUBJECTIVE
This 32-year-old female was struck in the left eye by the slats of a mini-blind,
lacerating (scratching or tearing) the sclera. Mild pain was noted but no immediate Prefixes
visual problems, no photophobia (extreme sensitivity to light), and no blurred vision.
Prefix Meaning
OBJECTIVE
There appears to be an abrasion of the left sclera with surrounding subconjunctival
an- not; without
(below the membrane that lines the eyelids) hematoma. Pupils are equal, regular, extra- outside
and reactive to light. There does not appear to be any involvement of the cornea.
Fluorescein stain shows some mild uptake over the injury site. hemi- half
intra- inside; within
ASSESSEMENT
Scleral abrasion, left eye. para- near; beside
PLAN peri- around
Patient should apply Garamycin® ophthalmic solution (antibiotic medication), 1–2
drops to left eye every 4 hours for 3 days. Recheck if problem continues or symptoms
worsen. Combining Forms
Root Word/Combining Vowel Meaning
audi/o hearing
Assessment blephar/o eyelid
Interpret Maria Jacobowitz’s Chart Note ir/o iris

Directions: After listening to the dictated recording and reading the chart note on Maria Jacobowitz, irid/o iris
provide the medical term that matches each definition below. kerat/o cornea

Example: inflammation of the retina Answer: retinitis myc/o fungus

myring/o tympanic membrane; eardrum
1. clear, outer layer of the eye that covers the iris
and pupil, and admits light ________________________________________________ ocul/o eye

2. extreme sensitivity to light ________________________________________________ ophthalm/o eye

3. below the membrane that lines the eyelids ________________________________________________ opt/o eye; vision

4. white, outer protective layer of the eye ________________________________________________ optic/o eye; vision
ot/o ear
5. pertaining to the eye ________________________________________________
pleg/o paralysis
presby/o old age
SCORECARD: How Did You Do?
retin/o retina
Number correct (_____), divided by 5 (_____), multiplied by 100 equals _____ (your score)
scler/o sclera (white of the eye)
tympan/o tympanic membrane; eardrum

272 Medical Terminology: Mastering the Basics Chapter 6 Special Sensory Organs: Eye and Ear 273
This sample chapter is for review purposes only. Copyright © The Goodheart-Willcox Co., Inc. All rights reserved.

Suffixes Break It Down

Suffix Meaning Directions: Dissect each medical term below into its word elements by placing
a slash between each word part (prefix, root word, combining vowel, and suffix).
-al pertaining to
Then define each term.
-algia pain
-ar pertaining to Example:
Medical Term: blepharoptosis
-ectomy surgical removal; excision
Dissection: blephar/o/ptosis
-gram record; image Definition: drooping of the eyelid
-ia condition
-ic pertaining to
Medical Term Dissection
-itis inflammation
1. hemiplegia h e m i p l e g i a
-logist specialist in the study of
-logy study of Definition: ___________________________________________________________________________________________
-meter instrument used to measure _______________________________________________________________________________________________________
-metry measurement
2. intraocular i n t r a o c u l a r
-opia vision
-osis abnormal condition Definition: ___________________________________________________________________________________________
-pexy surgical fixation _______________________________________________________________________________________________________
-plasty surgical repair
-ptosis drooping; downward displacement 3. intraretinal i n t r a r e t i n a l

-rrhea discharge; flow

Definition: ___________________________________________________________________________________________
-rrhexis rupture _______________________________________________________________________________________________________
-scope instrument used to observe
-scopy process of observing 4. periophthalmic p e r i o p h t h a l m i c
-spasm involuntary muscle contraction
Definition: ___________________________________________________________________________________________
-stomy new opening
_______________________________________________________________________________________________________
-tomy incision; cut into
5. periotic p e r i o t i c

More Practice: Activities and Games Definition: ___________________________________________________________________________________________

_______________________________________________________________________________________________________
The activities on the following pages will help you reinforce your skills
and check your mastery of the medical terminology that you learned in this
chapter. Visit the companion website for More Practice games and activities. 6. blepharal b l e p h a r a l

Definition: ___________________________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________________________________

274 Medical Terminology: Mastering the Basics Chapter 6 Special Sensory Organs: Eye and Ear 275
This sample chapter is for review purposes only. Copyright © The Goodheart-Willcox Co., Inc. All rights reserved.

Medical Term Dissection Audio Activity: Phuong Tao’s Chart Note

7. blepharectomy b l e p h a r e c t o m y Directions: At the companion website, listen and read along as the physician
dictates the following chart note on Phuong Tao. Then do the exercise that
appears after the chart note.
Definition: ___________________________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________________________________
CHART NOTE
8. iridorrhexis i r i d o r r h e x i s
Patient Name: Tao, Phuong
Definition: ___________________________________________________________________________________________ ID Number: TP9231
Examination Date: January 7, 20xx
_______________________________________________________________________________________________________
SUBJECTIVE
This 58-year-old female patient presents with declining vision. She states that she failed her
9. iridotomy i r i d o t o m y
driver’s license eye exam two weeks ago. She wants a “solution” because she drives herself
and her mother to the grocery store and to doctor appointments on a monthly basis.
Definition: ___________________________________________________________________________________________
OBJECTIVE
_______________________________________________________________________________________________________ Vision is 20/50 in the right eye and 20/70 in the left eye.

ASSESSMENT
10. keratitis k e r a t i t i s Senile cataracts.

PLAN
Definition: ___________________________________________________________________________________________
Slight improvement in left eye can be obtained by increasing the prescription. Copy
_______________________________________________________________________________________________________ of prescription for left eye lens change was given to the patient. Driver’s license
form completed. Patient instructed to drive only during the daytime. I informed the
patient that cataract surgery is warranted in the near future. I discussed the need for
the procedure and its risks and benefits. She was given a pamphlet explaining the
procedure and will follow up.
Spelling
Directions: Each medical term listed below is misspelled. Rewrite each term with the correct spelling.
Assessment
1. otomychosis ___________________________________________________________
Interpret Phuong Tao’s Chart Note
2. iridiplexy ___________________________________________________________
3. presbycosis ___________________________________________________________ Directions: After listening to the dictated recording and reading the chart note on Phuong Tao, provide
the medical term that matches each definition below.
4. miryngitis ___________________________________________________________
5. occular ___________________________________________________________ Example: pertaining to near the eye Answer: paraocular
6. otagia ___________________________________________________________
1. clouding of the lens of the eye ________________________________________________
7. otorhea ___________________________________________________________
2. fractional number that represents visual
8. blepharplegea ___________________________________________________________ acuity (In this case, the line read by the
9. perocular ___________________________________________________________ patient read from a distance of 20 feet can be
read by a person with normal vision from a
10. ophtaloscope ___________________________________________________________ distance of 50 feet.) ________________________________________________
11. sclarotomy ___________________________________________________________ 3. structure of the eye that focuses light onto the
12. optomology ___________________________________________________________ retina ________________________________________________

276 Medical Terminology: Mastering the Basics Chapter 6 Special Sensory Organs: Eye and Ear 277