Corneal wound healing-Pathophysiology and principles

Abstract

The cornea forms the anterior border of the eye and significantly contributes to asharp optical image quality on the retina through its transparency, avascular nature and curvature. Because of its anatomical structure and as abarrier to the environment, the cornea is particularly exposed to various external factors, such as injuries and pathogens. A correct wound healing without the formation of light diverging scarring is therefore essential to preserve the integrity and function of the cornea. Misguided wound healing is of outstanding clinical relevance and can lead to corneal fibrogenesis. Corneal fibrosis results in scarring with aloss of optical transparency, which significantly reduces eyesight and can lead to blindness. Understanding the pathophysiological mechanisms of wound healing and fibrogenesis is of great importance for the diagnostics, treatment and evaluation of the subsequent healing process in order to prevent permanent damage as far as possible.