The human eye is a unique organ that can perform many functions. It has a peculiar structure. However, not everyone knows what sclera is and what diseases of this part of the eye exist. First you need to understand the structure of the eye.
What is sclera
The sclera of the eye is the outer shell of the eyeball , which has a large area and covers 5/6 of the entire surface of the visual organ. In fact, it is a dense and opaque fibrous tissue. The thickness and density of the sclera in some places is not the same. Moreover, the range of changes of the first indicator of the outer shell can be 0.3-1 mm.
The outer layer of the sclera
So what is sclera? This is a kind of fibrous tissue, which consists of several layers. Moreover, each of them has its own characteristics. The outer layer is called episcleral. There is a large number of blood vessels that provide high-quality blood supply to tissues. In addition, the outer layer is securely connected to the outer part of the eye capsule. This is its main feature.
Since the main part of the blood vessels passes to the anterior part of the visual organ through the muscles, the upper part of the outer layer differs from the inner parts by intensive blood supply.
Deeper layers
The sclera itself consists mainly of fibrocytes and collagen. These components are very important for the body as a whole. The first group of substances takes an active part in the process of collagen production, as well as in the separation of its fibers. The inner, most recent layer of fabric is called the โbrown plateโ. It contains a large amount of pigment, which determines the specific shade of the lining of the eye.
For staining such a plate, certain cells are responsible - chromatophores. They are contained in the inner layer in large quantities. A brown plate most often consists of a thin sclera fiber, as well as a minor admixture of the elastic component. Outside, this layer is covered with endothelium.
All blood vessels, as well as nerve endings located in the sclera, pass through the emissaries - special channels.
What functions does
The functions of the sclera are very diverse. The first of them is due to the fact that collagen fibers inside the tissue are not arranged in a strict order. Because of this, the rays of light are simply unable to penetrate the sclera. This fabric protects the retina from intense exposure to light and sunlight. Thanks to this function, a person is able to see well. This is the main purpose of sclera.
This fabric is designed to protect the eyes not only from intense lighting, but also from all kinds of damage, including those that are physical and chronic. In addition, the sclera protects the organs of vision from the effects of harmful environmental factors.
It is also worth highlighting another function of this tissue. Conventionally, it can be called frame. That sclera is a quality support and at the same time a reliable element for attaching ligaments, muscles and other components of the eye.
Congenital diseases
Despite the fairly simple structure, there are certain diseases and pathologies of sclera. Do not forget that this tissue performs important functions and when any disturbances occur, the functioning of the visual apparatus as a whole deteriorates sharply. Diseases can reduce visual acuity and lead to irreparable consequences. Ailments of the sclera can be not only congenital, but also caused by various stimuli and have an acquired character.
Such a pathology as blue sclera often occurs as a result of a genetic predisposition and improper formation of tissues connecting the eyeball, even in the womb. The unusual shade is explained by the small thickness of the layers. Through the thin sclera, the pigment of the lining of the eyes is visible. It is worth noting that such a pathology often occurs with other eye abnormalities, as well as with violations of the processes of formation of hearing organs, bone tissues and joints.
Diseases of the sclera are most often congenital. Melanosis also refers to these. With the development of this ailment, dark spots form on the surface of the sclera. Patients with a similar diagnosis should be registered with an ophthalmologist. With the development of such an ailment, regular monitoring is required, as well as timely warning of the development of serious complications.
Acquired ailments
Quite often, inflammation of the sclera occurs. Diseases that arise as a result of such a process deserve special attention. The development of such ailments can provoke not only general disruptions in the functioning of certain systems of the human body, but also infections. Often pathogens penetrate the tissues of the outer ocular membrane with a stream of lymph or blood. This is the main cause of the inflammatory process.
In conclusion
Now you know what sclera is and what diseases of this tissue exist. Treatment of her ailments begins with the diagnosis and consultation of a doctor. Only a specialist can prescribe therapy for the disease, identifying all the symptoms. With the development of ailments of sclera, it is recommended to consult an ophthalmologist. The specialist must conduct a series of laboratory tests. After diagnosis, therapy is prescribed.
If the disease is caused by a violation in other systems of the body, then treatment will be aimed at eliminating the underlying cause. Only after this will be carried out activities to restore vision.