Intermediate
Technical
In the Industry Vocabulary Test
aphakia
Pronunciation: ah-FAY-kee-ah
The absence of the natural lens of the eye, typically following cataract extraction.
Full Definition
Aphakia is the condition where the eye's natural crystalline lens is absent, most commonly occurring after cataract surgery when the lens has been removed. This condition results in significant refractive error and loss of accommodation. Patients with aphakia require optical correction through contact lenses, intraocular lens implants, or thick aphakic spectacles to restore functional vision.
Usage
Usage note: Always specify whether aphakia is unilateral or bilateral in clinical documentation.
In Context
- "The patient developed bilateral aphakia following complicated cataract extractions." — Surgical report
- "Aphakic correction was achieved using high-powered contact lenses." — Post-operative notes
Also known as
lensless eye
Contrasted with
pseudophakia
phakia
Don't confuse with
pseudophakia
phakia