Glaucoma Disease Glossary
Navigating a diagnosis of an age-related disease can be overwhelming, especially with all the new medical terms involved. Whether you're preparing for a doctor’s visit or simply want to better understand a glaucoma diagnosis, this glossary serves as a quick reference to help you define and understand commonly used terms.
Pupil
The adjustable opening at the center of the iris through which light enters the eye.
Retina
The light-sensitive layer of tissue that lines the back of the eye. It captures the light that enters the eye and sends it to the brain so we can see.
Retinal pigmented epithelium
A layer of cells that protects and nourishes the retina, removes waste products, prevents new blood vessel growth into the retinal layer, and absorbs light not absorbed by the photoreceptor cells; these actions prevent the scattering of the light and enhance clarity of vision.
Rods
Photoreceptor nerve cells in the eyes that are sensitive to low light levels and are present in the retina, but outside the macula
Sclera
The tough outer coat that protects the entire eyeball.
Secondary glaucoma
A broad term that encompasses many types of glaucoma that are the result of certain medical conditions in the eye or the body.