konfokatsioon

Konfokatsioon is a physiological phenomenon characterized by the narrowing or constriction of the pupil in response to bright light or certain focusing demands. It is a key component of the pupillary light reflex, which helps regulate the amount of light entering the eye to protect the retina and optimize vision. The term originates from the Latin "confligere," meaning "to strike together," reflecting the focusing action of the eye's muscular and neural components.

The process involves the contraction of the sphincter pupillae muscle, controlled by the parasympathetic nervous system via the oculomotor nerve (cranial nerve III). When exposed to bright illumination or when focusing on near objects, sensory signals from the retina are transmitted to the brain's pretectal area, which subsequently sends signals to the Edinger-Westphal nucleus. From there, parasympathetic fibers reach the sphincter pupillae muscle, causing constriction, or konfokatsioon.

This constriction not only reduces the amount of light reaching the retina but also enhances the depth of focus, facilitating clear near vision. The phenomenon occurs bilaterally, meaning that shining a light into one eye typically causes constriction in both pupils—a response known as consensual reflex.

Abnormalities in konfokatsioon can indicate neurological or ocular disorders, such as afferent pupillary defects or autonomic nervous system dysfunction. Testing for proper Konfokatsioon responses is a routine part of neurological examinations to assess the integrity of the afferent and efferent pathways involved in the pupillary light reflex. Overall, konfokatsioon plays a vital role in visual function and ocular health by maintaining optimal light levels for vision and protecting retinal structures.