cycloplegia

Full Definition

Cycloplegia refers to paralysis of the ciliary muscle, which results in the loss of accommodation (ability to focus on near objects). This condition can occur naturally due to neurological damage affecting the parasympathetic nerve supply to the eye, or can be induced pharmacologically with cycloplegic agents such as atropine or cyclopentolate. Cycloplegia is often accompanied by mydriasis (pupil dilation) and is used therapeutically in certain inflammatory conditions or diagnostically to determine true refractive error.

Usage

Usage note: Often accompanies mydriasis when due to third nerve involvement.

In Context

• "The trauma patient developed cycloplegia secondary to third nerve palsy." — Emergency trauma evaluation
• "Cycloplegia was induced with atropine drops to provide accurate refraction in the pediatric patient." — Pediatric refraction protocol