What is limbus corneae?

Limbus corneae is the outer edge or border of the cornea, which is the clear, dome-shaped front part of the eye that covers the iris, pupil, and anterior chamber. It is the transition zone between the cornea and the sclera, the white part of the eye.

The limbus corneae is composed of several layers of tissue that include the epithelium, Bowman's layer, stroma, Descemet's membrane, and endothelium. It contains numerous blood vessels, lymphatic vessels, and nerves, making it an important site for immune surveillance and sensory perception.

The limbus corneae is also the location of the corneal stem cells, which are responsible for the self-renewal and regeneration of the corneal tissue. These stem cells have a unique ability to differentiate into different cell types, maintaining the transparency and integrity of the cornea.

In some ocular disorders, the limbus corneae can be affected, leading to conditions such as limbal stem cell deficiency, limbal dermoids, and limbal girdle of Vogt. These conditions can cause visual impairment and require specialized treatment to preserve the health of the eye.