Cornea

The cornea is the eye's clear, dome-shaped outer covering that protects the iris, pupil, and anterior chamber. The cornea is the primary surface via which light enters the eye and plays an important role in focusing vision. It functions as a window, bending light rays to help the eye concentrate on objects close and far. Unlike other tissues, the cornea lacks blood veins and relies on tears and aqueous humor (a clear fluid in the front of the eye) for nutrition.
Several disorders can affect the cornea, resulting in blurred vision or pain. Infections frequently cause keratitis, an inflammation of the cornea, while keratoconus, a progressive thinning of the cornea, results in a conical shape that distorts vision. Infections, injuries, or contact lens usage can cause painful sores known as corneal ulcers, which require prompt treatment to prevent scarring. In dry eye syndrome, insufficient tear production or tear quality can make the cornea susceptible to irritation and damage.
Treatments for corneal disorders range from medicated eye drops to surgical procedures such as corneal transplants. Advances in corneal transplant techniques, such as DMEK and DSEK (partial thickness transplants), enable surgeons to restore eyesight more successfully and with fewer intrusive surgeries.