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Glossary of Terms - R
Common terms to help you learn more about your eyes and vision

Retinopathy of Prematurity

Retinopathy of prematurity (ROP) is an eye disease that affects premature or underweight babies (babies who weigh less than 3 pounds at birth). Abnormal blood vessels grow in the retina, the light-sensitive layer in the back of your eye.

Rods

Light-sensitive cells in the retina that work best in darkness or dim illuminations.

Retina

Innermost layer of the eye containing light sensitive nerve cells and fibers connecting with the brain through the optic nerve and nourished by a network of blood vessels; receives image and sends it to the brain.

Refraction

Measurement of the focusing characteristics of the eye to determine refractive error and the need for prescription glasses.