Predilate

Predilate is a term that can refer to a few different concepts, primarily in the context of medicine and ophthalmology. In a general medical sense, to predilate means to prepare or dilate a part of the body before a procedure or examination. This often involves using medication to widen blood vessels or other structures.

In ophthalmology, predilation specifically refers to the practice of using eye drops to dilate the pupil before certain diagnostic tests or surgical procedures. This dilation is necessary to get a better view of the internal structures of the eye, such as the retina and optic nerve. Common dilating agents include phenylephrine and tropicamide. The process of predilation is typically painless and the effects are temporary, lasting for a few hours. Patients may experience blurred vision and sensitivity to light during this period.

The term predilate can also appear in pharmaceutical contexts, referring to a medication or treatment that is designed to be administered prior to another drug or intervention to enhance its effectiveness or reduce potential side effects. This could involve preparing the body's tissues or systems for the subsequent treatment. The specific mechanism and purpose of predilation in such cases would depend on the drugs and conditions involved.