Definition

Noun: * Reflex changes in the eyes that enable an object to be focused on the retina: The automatic adjustment of the eye's lens shape, pupil size, and convergence of the eyes to maintain clear focus on a near object.

Usage

The term is used in medical, physiological, and optometric contexts to describe the automatic, coordinated response of the eye when shifting focus from a distant to a near object. * The doctor tested the patient's accommodation reflex to assess the function of their cranial nerves. * A normal accommodation reflex involves three actions: the lens becomes rounder, the pupils constrict, and the eyes converge.

Advanced Usage

• "Near reflex": This is a synonym often used interchangeably with "accommodation reflex," emphasizing its trigger (a near object).
• "Accommodation-convergence reflex": A more specific term highlighting the linked actions of lens adjustment (accommodation) and inward turning of the eyes (convergence).

Variants and Related Words

• Accommodate (verb): In this context, it means to adjust the eye's lens to focus.
  • The eye must accommodate to see the text clearly.
• Accommodative (adjective): Relating to accommodation.
  • The patient has poor accommodative ability.

Synonyms

• Near reflex
• Accommodation-convergence reflex

Related Phrases and Concepts

• Pupillary light reflex: The automatic constriction of the pupil in response to bright light. This is a different reflex but is often compared or contrasted with the accommodation reflex in neurological exams.
• Presbyopia: The age-related loss of the eye's ability to accommodate, resulting in difficulty focusing on near objects.

Noun

1. reflex changes in the eyes that enable an object to be focused on the retina