Search
mydriasis
Etiology:
- widening or dilation of the pupils, secondary to:
a) a physiologic response to dim light
b) a pharmacologic response to mydriatic agents*
c) injury to the eye
* sympathomimetics as a general class induce mydriasis
- amphetamines & other adrenergic neuron stimulants
- cocaine
- serotonin syndrome
Mydriasis is controlled by sympathetic innervation from the superior cervical ganglion & relaxation of parasympathetic tone from the oculomotor nerve.
See also miosis (contraction of the pupil).
Related
mydriatic agent
General
sign/symptom
References
- Stedman's Medical Dictionary 24th ed, Williams &
Wilkins, Baltimore, 1982
- The Bantam Medical Dictionary, Bantam Books, New York, 1981