Section outline

◄Topic 1: Conjunctiva

  • Introduction:


    The Sclera, like sclerosis and sclerotic, gets its name from Latin and Greek words meaning "hard." The sclera is the white of the eye, and if you press on your own sclera through your eyelid you will feel that it is quite firm. The eyes are usually thought of as delicate or squishy structures and while it is true that the eyes are important enough to demand protection these organs are able to maintain their own structure thanks to the sclera.

    In this module we will look at the anatomy of the whites of the eye. We will consider what the sclera is made of at a microscopic level. And we will consider how changes at the small scale can manifest themselves in significant differences in the eye as a whole.

    Finally, we will discuss several different types of scleral pathology, and we will learn how the sclera can be helpful in diagnosing some systemic diseases and genetic disorders.

    When we glance at someone's eyes usually the colorful iris is the first thing we notice. But that iris only appears so colorful because of the white backdrop provided by the sclera.

    Let's consider this structure in greater detail.

    Issue Date: 08/01/2020

◄Topic 1: Conjunctiva