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Home › Body Atlas › Sense Organs › Corneal Endothelium
Sense Organ Head & Skull

Corneal Endothelium

epithelium posterius corneae

The corneal endothelium is a single layer of hexagonal cells lining the inner surface of the cornea. It pumps fluid out of the stroma to keep the cornea clear and does not regenerate in humans.

Anatomical Data

Structure & Supply

LocationInnermost layer of the cornea, facing the anterior chamber
Parts
  • Hexagonal cells
  • Pump and barrier function
Nerve SupplyLong and short ciliary nerves (ophthalmic nerve, trigeminal)
Blood SupplyNone (nourished by aqueous humour)
Biomechanics

Function & Actions

Keeps the cornea dehydrated and therefore transparent.

Clinical Relevance

Clinical Notes

Cell numbers fall with age, surgery and disease; when too few remain, the cornea swells and clouds. Fuchs endothelial dystrophy is a common reason for corneal transplantation. Cell counts are checked before cataract surgery in some patients.

Pathology

Common Injuries & Conditions

Fuchs Endothelial Dystrophy

Progressive loss of endothelial cells causing corneal swelling and glare, often worse in the morning.

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