Palpebral fissure: Difference between revisions

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'''Palpebral fissure''' is the elliptical open space between the [[eyelids]]. In simple terms, it refers to the opening that lets light into the eye, allowing us to see. The size and shape of the palpebral fissure can vary greatly among individuals and may also indicate certain medical conditions.
== Palpebral Fissure ==
 
[[File:Gray892.png|thumb|right|Diagram of the human eye, showing the palpebral fissure.]]
 
The '''palpebral fissure''' is the anatomical term for the opening between the [[eyelids]]. It is a key feature in the [[human eye]] and plays a crucial role in [[vision]] and [[ocular health]]. The size and shape of the palpebral fissure can vary significantly among individuals and can be influenced by genetic, developmental, and environmental factors.


== Anatomy ==
== Anatomy ==


The palpebral fissure is bounded by the edges of the upper and lower [[eyelids]], and it exposes the anterior surface of the [[sclera]] and [[cornea]]. The vertical dimension of the palpebral fissure is typically about 10 mm, while the horizontal dimension is about 30 mm.
The palpebral fissure is bordered by the upper and lower eyelids. The upper eyelid is more mobile and is responsible for covering the eye when closed. The lower eyelid is relatively stationary. The fissure itself is a horizontal slit that allows light to enter the eye, enabling vision.
 
The dimensions of the palpebral fissure are clinically significant. The average width of the fissure in adults is approximately 27-30 mm, while the height is about 8-11 mm. These measurements can vary based on [[ethnicity]], [[age]], and [[gender]].
 
== Function ==


== Clinical significance ==
The primary function of the palpebral fissure is to protect the eye. It acts as a barrier against foreign particles, excessive light, and injury. The eyelids, which form the boundaries of the fissure, help in spreading the tear film across the surface of the eye, keeping it moist and free from debris.


The size and shape of the palpebral fissure can be affected by a variety of medical conditions. For example, a condition known as [[blepharophimosis]] is characterized by a narrowing of the palpebral fissure. On the other hand, [[exophthalmos]] (protrusion of the eyeball) can lead to an abnormally wide palpebral fissure.
The palpebral fissure also plays a role in facial expression. Movements of the eyelids, such as blinking and winking, are important for non-verbal communication.


[[Down syndrome]] is often associated with an upward slanting of the palpebral fissure, while [[Fetal alcohol syndrome]] is associated with a short palpebral fissure.
== Clinical Significance ==


== Measurement ==
Abnormalities in the size or shape of the palpebral fissure can be indicative of various medical conditions. For example, a narrow palpebral fissure may be seen in [[blepharophimosis]], while a wide fissure can be a feature of [[Graves' disease]].


The measurement of the palpebral fissure is important in the diagnosis of various diseases. It can be measured using a ruler or a caliper. The measurement is taken horizontally from the inner canthus to the outer canthus.
In [[Down syndrome]], the palpebral fissures are often slanted upwards, which is a characteristic feature of the condition. Similarly, in [[Fetal Alcohol Syndrome]], the fissures may appear shorter than average.


== See also ==
== Related Pages ==


* [[Blepharophimosis]]
* [[Eyelid]]
* [[Exophthalmos]]
* [[Human eye]]
* [[Vision]]
* [[Graves' disease]]
* [[Down syndrome]]
* [[Down syndrome]]
* [[Fetal alcohol syndrome]]


[[Category:Anatomy]]
[[Category:Anatomy of the eye]]
[[Category:Ophthalmology]]
{{anatomy-stub}}
{{eye-stub}}

Latest revision as of 10:46, 15 February 2025

Palpebral Fissure[edit]

Diagram of the human eye, showing the palpebral fissure.

The palpebral fissure is the anatomical term for the opening between the eyelids. It is a key feature in the human eye and plays a crucial role in vision and ocular health. The size and shape of the palpebral fissure can vary significantly among individuals and can be influenced by genetic, developmental, and environmental factors.

Anatomy[edit]

The palpebral fissure is bordered by the upper and lower eyelids. The upper eyelid is more mobile and is responsible for covering the eye when closed. The lower eyelid is relatively stationary. The fissure itself is a horizontal slit that allows light to enter the eye, enabling vision.

The dimensions of the palpebral fissure are clinically significant. The average width of the fissure in adults is approximately 27-30 mm, while the height is about 8-11 mm. These measurements can vary based on ethnicity, age, and gender.

Function[edit]

The primary function of the palpebral fissure is to protect the eye. It acts as a barrier against foreign particles, excessive light, and injury. The eyelids, which form the boundaries of the fissure, help in spreading the tear film across the surface of the eye, keeping it moist and free from debris.

The palpebral fissure also plays a role in facial expression. Movements of the eyelids, such as blinking and winking, are important for non-verbal communication.

Clinical Significance[edit]

Abnormalities in the size or shape of the palpebral fissure can be indicative of various medical conditions. For example, a narrow palpebral fissure may be seen in blepharophimosis, while a wide fissure can be a feature of Graves' disease.

In Down syndrome, the palpebral fissures are often slanted upwards, which is a characteristic feature of the condition. Similarly, in Fetal Alcohol Syndrome, the fissures may appear shorter than average.

Related Pages[edit]