| Conjunctiva | |
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| The upper half of a sagittal section through the front of the eyeball. (Label for 'Conjunctiva' visible at center-left.) | |
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| Horizontal section of the eyeball. (Conjunctiva labeled at upper left.) | |
| Gray's | subject #227 1026 |
| Artery | lacrimal artery, anterior ciliary arteries |
| Nerve | lacrimal nerve |
| MeSH | Conjunctiva |
The conjunctiva is a clear membrane that covers the sclera (white part of the eye) and lines the inside of the eyelids. It is made of lymphoid tissue.
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It helps lubricate the eye by producing mucus and tears, although a smaller volume of tears than the lacrimal gland.[1] It also contributes to immune surveillance and helps to prevent the entrance of microbes into the eye.
The conjunctiva is typically divided into three parts:
Disorders of the conjunctiva and cornea are a common source of eye complaints.
The surface of the eye is exposed to various external influences and is especially suspectible to trauma, infections, and allergic reactions.
The conjunctiva is best known because of its inflamed state, conjunctivitis (more commonly known as pinkeye).
Conjunctival irritation is one of the adverse health effects that can take place after overexposure to VOCs (Volatile organic compounds).
 Sagittal section through the upper eyelid. |
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