macula
/'mækjulə/
Học thuậtThân thiện
Definition
- Noun:
- A small, distinct, flat, discolored spot or patch on the skin: A "macula" is a small area of skin that has changed color but is not raised above the surrounding skin surface. It is often caused by various skin conditions or diseases.
- The central area of the retina in the eye: In anatomy, the "macula" (specifically the macula lutea) is a small, yellowish, central region of the retina responsible for sharp, detailed central vision. It is rich in cone cells.
- A sunspot: In astronomy, a "macula" refers to a cooler, darker spot that appears periodically on the sun's photosphere, associated with strong magnetic activity.
Examples of Usage
- Noun (Medical/Dermatology):
- The doctor examined the patient's back and noted a small, brown macula.
- A macula can be a sign of a benign condition or a more serious skin disease.
- Noun (Anatomy/Ophthalmology):
- The macula is essential for activities like reading and recognizing faces.
- Damage to the macula can lead to a loss of central vision.
- Noun (Astronomy):
- Solar telescopes allow scientists to study the magnetic fields of a macula on the sun.
Advanced Usage
- "Macula lutea": The full anatomical term for the eye's macula, meaning "yellow spot."
- The high concentration of carotenoids gives the macula lutea its yellowish color.
- "Macular" (Adjective): Pertaining to a macula.
- Macular degeneration is a common eye condition affecting the central retina.
Variants and Related Words
- Macule (n): An alternative term, especially in dermatology, for a flat, discolored skin spot.
- Freckles are a common type of macule.
- Macular (adj): Relating to or affecting the macula of the eye.
- Regular eye exams are important for detecting macular diseases early.
Synonyms
- Spot: A general term for a small, round mark.
- Patch: A small area differing from its surroundings.
- Sunspot: Specifically for the astronomical meaning.
Related Phrases
- Macular degeneration: A medical condition causing loss of central vision.
- Age-related macular degeneration is a leading cause of vision loss in older adults.
- Macular edema: Swelling in the macula of the eye.
- Diabetic retinopathy can sometimes lead to macular edema.
Noun
- a patch of skin that is discolored but not usually elevated; caused by various diseases
- a small yellowish central area of the retina that is rich in cones and that mediates clear detailed vision
- a cooler darker spot appearing periodically on the sun's photosphere; associated with a strong magnetic field