periokulární

Periokulární is a term used in anatomy and ophthalmology to describe structures or processes around the eye. It denotes the tissues surrounding the eyeball, including the eyelids and surrounding skin, the lacrimal apparatus, the medial and lateral canthi, the orbital septum, and adjacent fat and soft tissue. The term does not refer to the ocular globe itself but to the adnexa and periorbital area.

Anatomical context: The periocular region comprises the eyelids (palpebrae), eyelashes, and periocular skin, as well as the lacrimal glands and ducts, lacrimal sac and nasolacrimal duct, and portions of the orbit around the globe. It also includes the orbital rim and surrounding soft tissues. The area is closely linked to both the surface eye and the deeper orbital structures.

Clinical relevance: Periocular involvement is common in ophthalmology. Periocular dermatitis or eczema affects the skin around the eyes. Periocular edema can accompany allergic reactions or infections. Periocular cellulitis (sometimes called preseptal cellulitis) is an infection of soft tissues anterior to the orbital septum; infections behind the septum are orbital cellulitis and require different management. Treatments depend on the condition and may include topical or systemic medications, sterile drainage, or surgical intervention in rare cases. Procedures such as periocular anesthesia or periocular injections target the region around the eye for regional anesthesia or drug delivery.

Etymology and usage: The term derives from peri- (around) and oculus (eye) in Latin, and is used primarily in medical and anatomical contexts to describe areas or processes around the eye.