Term: wide field diffuse amacrine cell

Definition: This cell type has a mean soma size of 10 micrometers (range 8.3-13.5 micrometers; N = 14). The extent of its dendritic field is difficult to define precisely; there is a core of short branches that extend vertically through the inner plexiform layer, and this core is surrounded by a number of branches that take an oblique course through the inner plexiform layer before terminating at variable distance from the cell soma at the level of ganglion cells. The dendrites of these cells have a characteristic varicose appearance and the ends of the dendrites often terminate with one of these swellings.