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conjunctiva (Cj)
A thin, transparent membrane that covers the posterior aspect of the eyelid (tarsus) & the anterior aspect of the sclera.
Function:
- the conjunctiva protects the eye against foreign materials & microorganisms
Structure:
- the palpebral conjunctiva is the tarsal conjunctival covering
- the bulbar conjunctiva is the scleral conjunctival covering
- the bulbar conjunctiva is loose & wrinkled over the sclera, but adherent to the cornea
Pathology:
Age-related disorders of the conjunctiva:
1) diminished mucous cells
a) increased evaporation of tear film
b) symptoms of dry eyes
c) managed with artificial tears & lubricating ointment
2) subconjunctival hemorrhages
Related
conjunctivitis
General
eye structure
References
- Saunders Manual of Medical Practice, Rakel (ed),
WB Saunders, Philadelphia, 1996, pg 69
- Grant's Atlas of Anatomy, 10th edition, AMR Agur & MJ Lee (eds),
Lippincott Williams & Wilkins, Philadelphia, 1999
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