What is the conjunctiva and what does it cover?

The conjunctiva is a thin, transparent mucous membrane that covers two main areas: the palpebral conjunctiva lining the inner eyelids and the bulbar conjunctiva covering the front of the sclera and cornea.

What are the key parts of the conjunctiva?

Key parts include the palpebral conjunctiva lining the inner eyelids, bulbar conjunctiva covering the sclera and cornea, conjunctival sac as the space between closed eyelids and the eyeball, and superior and inferior fornices where the conjunctiva reflects from lid to eyeball.

How is the conjunctiva supplied with nerves?

Nerve supply varies by region: the palpebral conjunctiva (upper lid) and ocular conjunctiva are supplied by the ophthalmic nerve, while the palpebral conjunctiva (lower lid) is supplied by the maxillary nerve.

What is the conjunctival fluid and what are its layers?

The conjunctival sac holds fluid in three layers: a watery layer from lacrimal glands, a mucus layer from goblet cells in the conjunctiva, and an oily layer from tarsal (Meibomian) glands. Blinking spreads these layers across the cornea.

What are some common clinical conditions related to the conjunctiva?

Common conditions include conjunctivitis, which is inflammation due to infection or allergy, and trachoma, a chronic, contagious conjunctivitis caused by trachoma virus. The conjunctiva is also examined for signs like anemia or jaundice.

How does the conjunctiva drain lymph and blood?

Lymph drains into the preauricular lymph nodes. Blood supply comes from branches of the ophthalmic artery, with venous drainage varying: palpebral conjunctiva drains into the facial vein, and ocular conjunctiva into ophthalmic veins.

Conjunctiva – Parts, Fornices & Clinical