Pronunciation: [mˈakjʊlə] (IPA) 
The spelling of the word "macula" might be tricky for some individuals. It is pronounced as /ˈmakjʊlə/ in IPA phonetic transcription, where the stress is on the first syllable "mac". The "c" is pronounced as "k" and "u" is pronounced as "oo". "L" is pronounced as a clear /l/ sound. "A" is pronounced as "uh". "Macula" refers to a small spot or blotch on a surface, particularly the skin, retina or a surface of a rock.
A macula refers to a small, flat, pigmented area or spot found in different parts of the body, predominantly in anatomical structures related to vision. In the context of ophthalmology, the macula is a highly specialized region located at the center of the retina, known as the macula lutea, responsible for central vision and visual acuity. This small, yellowish pigmented area is composed of a high concentration of cone cells, which are the photoreceptor cells responsible for sharp and detailed vision. It lies near the optic nerve and is crucial for visual tasks requiring fine detail, such as reading, writing, recognizing faces, and perceiving details of objects.
In the dermatological sense, macula refers to a discolored or pigmented skin lesion that appears flat, differing in texture and color from surrounding areas of the skin. These macules usually range in size from a few millimeters to a few centimeters and can be caused by various factors, such as sun exposure, skin disorders, inflammation, or genetic predisposition.
Ultimately, the term macula encompasses two distinct anatomical definitions: the macula lutea found in the retina, involved in central vision and visual acuity, and the flat, discolored skin lesion found in dermatology.
1. A small spot, or what appears as a spot on section, differing in color from the surrounding tissue. 2. A small discolored patch or spot on the skin, not elevated above the general surface; macule. 3. A moderately dense opacity of the cornea.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
A spot, as on the skin, or on the face of the sun or moon.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
The word "macula" originated from Latin, where it meant "spot" or "stain". It is derived from the word "maculae" in Latin, which shares the same meaning.
