Coneal & Ocular Surface Diseases

The surface layers of the eye consist of the conjunctiva (the clear covering of the white of the eye) and the cornea (clear covering over the colored iris and black pupil). These are both covered with a layer called the epithelium. In eyes with the ocular surface disease, this epithelial layer is damaged. This damage may result from a wide variety of conditions involving the eye, the eyelids, and even the rest of the body. Damage to the epithelium can cause pain, redness, poor vision, and ultimately can lead to permanent corneal or conjunctival injury. Treatment depends on the underlying cause of the ocular surface disease.