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Iris

Definition

The iris is the colored portion of the eye located between the cornea and lens. The iris' round, central opening (the pupil) contracts and dilates to control the entrance of light into the eye, allowing you to see well under a variety of lighting conditions.

Review Date: 8/11/2009
Reviewed By: David C. Dugdale, III, MD, Professor of Medicine, Division of General Medicine, Department of Medicine, University of Washington School of Medicine. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc.
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