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The cornea is the transparent, dome-shaped outermost layer of the eye, approximately 12 mm in diameter. It plays a crucial role not only as a physical barrier against dust, microorganisms, and harmful particles but also as an essential component of vision. The cornea filters some ultraviolet light and protects internal structures such as the iris, pupil, and anterior chamber. By refracting incoming light, the curvature of the cornea focuses the light onto the retina to create a clear image. Any injury, disease, or infection affecting the cornea can distort or block light entry, impairing vision.
The cornea comprises specialized avascular tissue, nourished by tears and the aqueous humor behind it. It consists of three major layers:
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Epithelium: This outermost layer contains numerous nerve endings, explaining why even minor irritation causes significant discomfort. The epithelium absorbs oxygen and nutrients from tears and connects to the stroma through the basement membrane.
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Stroma: Making up nearly 90% of corneal thickness, the stroma is composed primarily of collagen and water. The orderly, geometric arrangement of collagen fibers maintains corneal clarity. When trauma disrupts this arrangement during healing, it can lead to clouding or scarring.
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Endothelium: The innermost layer, the endothelium, maintains fluid balance by pumping excess water out of the stroma. Dysfunction of this pump mechanism causes fluid retention, leading to corneal haze and impaired vision.
Symptoms of Corneal Conditions:
Corneal diseases or trauma may manifest as:
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Intense eye pain
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Blurred or double vision
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Excessive tearing
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Redness and irritation
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Extreme light sensitivity
Common Corneal Conditions:
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Corneal injuries or trauma
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Eye allergies and dry eye syndrome
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Keratitis (inflammation of the cornea)
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Ocular herpes and herpes zoster (shingles)
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Nutritional deficiencies, especially Vitamin A deficiency
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Corneal dystrophies such as keratoconus, Fuchs' dystrophy, and map-dot-fingerprint dystrophy
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Autoimmune-related diseases, pterygium, and Stevens-Johnson syndrome
Treatment Options for Corneal Disorders:
Mild corneal conditions often respond well to antibiotic or anti-inflammatory eye drops and oral medications. However, more advanced corneal diseases may require specialized interventions:
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Laser Treatment: Phototherapeutic keratectomy (PTK) is a laser-based treatment that can reshape the cornea, remove scar tissue, and enhance visual clarity, particularly beneficial in corneal dystrophies.
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Corneal Transplant Surgery: In cases where the cornea is irreparably damaged, surgeons can perform a corneal transplant by replacing the affected area with healthy donor tissue.
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Artificial Cornea (Keratoprosthesis): When traditional transplantation is not viable, an artificial cornea (KPro) offers an alternative solution to restore vision.
For those seeking expert care, cornea surgery in Mumbai offers cutting-edge treatments performed by skilled ophthalmologists in world-class eye care centers. Mumbai's leading hospitals and eye institutes are equipped with state-of-the-art technology, including advanced laser systems, surgical microscopes, and innovative diagnostic tools. Patients benefit from comprehensive care that includes diagnosis, medical management, surgical interventions, and postoperative rehabilitation.
Whether addressing complex corneal dystrophies, managing trauma-induced damage, or performing corneal transplants, specialists in Mumbai deliver tailored solutions aimed at restoring clear vision and improving quality of life. With access to experienced surgeons and internationally accredited facilities, patients can be assured of high standards of safety, precision, and outcomes.
If you are experiencing symptoms of corneal disease or require surgical intervention, consulting a specialist for cornea surgery in Mumbai can help preserve your sight and maintain ocular health.


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