The choroid is the thin, dark, highly vascular layer between the sclera and the retina at the back of the eye. It has one of the highest blood flows per gram of any tissue. Its innermost capillary layer, the choriocapillaris, feeds the outer retina, including the photoreceptors.
| Location | Posterior part of the uvea, from the ora serrata to the optic nerve, between sclera and retina |
|---|---|
| Parts |
|
| Nerve Supply | Short ciliary nerves (autonomic) |
| Blood Supply | Short posterior ciliary arteries |
Provides oxygen and nutrients to the outer retina and helps remove its waste. Its pigment absorbs scattered light to sharpen the image.
Abnormal new vessels from the choroid growing under the retina cause wet age-related macular degeneration, treated with anti-VEGF injections. The choroid is a common site for uveal melanoma and for metastases from breast and lung cancer. Choroidal ruptures can follow blunt trauma and may damage central vision if they cross the macula.
Growth of fragile new vessels from the choroid through Bruch membrane, leaking fluid and blood under the macula. It is the hallmark of wet macular degeneration.
The most common primary malignant tumour inside the adult eye, seen as a pigmented dome-shaped mass. Treatment includes plaque radiotherapy or enucleation.
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