Certified Ophthalmic Assistant Practice Exam

What is the fluid located between the cornea and the iris?

1. Aqueous humor

2. Vitreous humor

3. Interstitial fluid

4. Synovial fluid

The correct answer is: Aqueous humor

The fluid located between the cornea and the iris is known as aqueous humor. This clear fluid plays a crucial role in maintaining intraocular pressure, providing nutrients to the avascular structures of the eye, and removing metabolic wastes. It is produced by the ciliary body, flows through the pupil into the anterior chamber, and is drained through the trabecular meshwork and Schlemm's canal. Understanding the function and location of aqueous humor is essential for anyone studying ophthalmology, as disturbances in its production or drainage can lead to conditions such as glaucoma. The vitreous humor, on the other hand, is the gel-like substance found in the posterior segment of the eye, filling the space between the lens and the retina. Interstitial fluid refers to the fluid found in the spaces between cells in various tissues and is not specific to the eye's anatomy. Synovial fluid is the lubricating fluid found in joint cavities, unrelated to ocular structures.