What does the term "hyphema" refer to?

What does the term "hyphema" refer to?

• A. Inflammation of the iris, cornea, and lens.
• B. An acute rupture of the globe of the eye.
• C. Blood in the anterior chamber of the eye.
• D. Compression of one or both optic nerves.

Answer: (C)

Hyphema specifically refers to the presence of blood in the anterior chamber of the eye, which is the fluid-filled space between the cornea and the iris. This condition can result from various causes, including trauma to the eye or certain medical conditions. The accumulation of blood can lead to increased pressure within the eye and may impair vision. This definition captures the essence of what hyphema is and highlights its significance in ocular health. In contrast, options that involve inflammation (such as the first choice) refer to different conditions affecting the eye's structures rather than blood accumulation. The second option describes globe rupture, a more severe and different injury typically associated with significant trauma. The last option pertains to optic nerve compression, which relates to issues with visual pathways rather than the state of the anterior chamber. Each of these alternatives represents distinct eye problems that do not align with the specific definition of hyphema.

Hyphema specifically refers to the presence of blood in the anterior chamber of the eye, which is the fluid-filled space between the cornea and the iris. This condition can result from various causes, including trauma to the eye or certain medical conditions. The accumulation of blood can lead to increased pressure within the eye and may impair vision. This definition captures the essence of what hyphema is and highlights its significance in ocular health.

In contrast, options that involve inflammation (such as the first choice) refer to different conditions affecting the eye's structures rather than blood accumulation. The second option describes globe rupture, a more severe and different injury typically associated with significant trauma. The last option pertains to optic nerve compression, which relates to issues with visual pathways rather than the state of the anterior chamber. Each of these alternatives represents distinct eye problems that do not align with the specific definition of hyphema.