slit lamp

Slit lamp

A microscope that projects a linear slit beam of light onto the eye; allows viewing of the conjunctiva, cornea, iris, aqueous humor, lens, and eyelid.

Mentioned in: Corneal Abrasion, Eye Examination, Uveitis

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slit lamp

Etymology: AS, slitan + Gk, lampein, to shine

an instrument used in ophthalmology for examining the external, surface, and internal segments of the eye, including the eyelid(s), lashes, conjunctiva, cornea, anterior chamber, pupil, iris, vitreous, and retina. A high-intensity beam of light is projected through a narrow slit, and a cross section of the illuminated part of the eye is examined through a magnifying lens. A second, hand-held lens is used to examine the retina.

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lamp

an apparatus for furnishing heat or light.

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slit lamp

one embodying a diaphragm containing a slit-like opening, by means of which a narrow, flat beam of intense light may be projected into the eye. It gives intense illumination so that microscopic study may be made of the conjunctiva, cornea, iris, lens and vitreous, the special feature being that it illuminates a section through the substance of these structures.

ultraviolet lamp

an electric light bulb that transmits ultraviolet rays; used as a therapeutic device. See also ultraviolet therapy.