cornea (C, K)

Introduction

The transparent structure forming the anterior 1/6 of the fibrous tunic of the eye.

It is continuous with the sclera which forms the remaining 5/6.

It has a radius of curvature of 7.7 mm

• contrast to the 13.5 mm radius of curvature of the sclera).

Function

• it is the chief refractory structure of the eye.
• the cornea is positively charged relative to the retina.

Structure

It consists of five layers:

• the anterior corneal epithelium, continuous with that of the conjunctiva
• the anterior limiting layer (Bowman's membrane)
• the substantia propria
• the posterior limiting layer
• the endothelium of the anterior chamber, called the keratoderma, Descemet's membrane is endothelial basement membrane

Innervation

• ophthalmic nerve (CN V1)

More general terms

• eye structure

Additional terms

• arcus senilis
• cornea specific keratin
• corneal abrasion
• corneal edema
• corneal opacification
• corneal reflex (eyelid reflex)
• sclera
• specular photographic microscopy of the corneal endothelium

Components

• corneal endothelium
• corneal limbus