The conjunctiva is a thin, transparent mucous membrane that lines the inner surface of the eyelids and covers the white of the eye up to the limbus. Where the two parts meet, they form deep pockets called the superior and inferior fornices. Its goblet cells add mucin to the tear film.
| Location | Inner surface of the eyelids and the front of the sclera |
|---|---|
| Parts |
|
| Nerve Supply | Branches of CN V1 (supratrochlear, infratrochlear, lacrimal, long ciliary nerves); Infraorbital nerve (CN V2, lower lid part) |
| Blood Supply | Palpebral arcades; Anterior ciliary arteries |
Protects the eye surface, allows the eyelids to move smoothly over the globe and contributes mucus to the tear film. It also hosts immune tissue that defends against infection.
Conjunctivitis (viral, bacterial or allergic) is the most common cause of a red eye and usually spares vision. Subconjunctival haemorrhage looks alarming but is usually harmless. The fornices limit how far a contact lens or foreign body can travel, and eye drops are placed into the lower fornix. Everting the upper lid examines the tarsal conjunctiva for foreign bodies and papillae.
Inflammation of the conjunctiva causing redness, discharge and grittiness. Viral forms are highly contagious; allergic forms itch and occur seasonally.
Bleeding under the bulbar conjunctiva from a ruptured small vessel, often after coughing or straining. It is painless and clears within two weeks.
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