DESCEMET MEMBRANE Meaning and
Definition
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Descemet Membrane is a thin, transparent layer located in the innermost part of the cornea. It is named after the French physician Jean Descemet, who first described it in the 18th century. This layer plays a crucial role in maintaining the structural integrity and function of the cornea.
Descemet Membrane is composed of collagen fibrils, which are responsible for its strength and elasticity. It acts as a protective barrier, preventing the entry of microorganisms and foreign particles into the eye. Furthermore, it serves as a support for the endothelial cells, a layer of cells located just below the Descemet Membrane.
The endothelial cells are responsible for maintaining the proper hydration levels of the cornea by pumping out excess fluid. They also help in maintaining the clarity and transparency of the cornea. The Descemet Membrane facilitates the attachment of the endothelial cells, ensuring their stability and proper function.
In certain eye conditions or diseases, such as Fuchs' dystrophy or corneal endothelial dystrophy, the Descemet Membrane can become damaged or dysfunctional. This can lead to corneal edema, a condition characterized by swelling and clouding of the cornea. In these cases, medical interventions such as Descemet Membrane endothelial keratoplasty (DMEK) or other surgical techniques may be necessary to replace or repair the damaged Descemet Membrane and restore normal corneal function.
Common Misspellings for DESCEMET MEMBRANE
- sescemet membrane
- xescemet membrane
- cescemet membrane
- fescemet membrane
- rescemet membrane
- eescemet membrane
- dwscemet membrane
- dsscemet membrane
- ddscemet membrane
- drscemet membrane
- d4scemet membrane
- d3scemet membrane
- deacemet membrane
- dezcemet membrane
- dexcemet membrane
- dedcemet membrane
- deecemet membrane
- dewcemet membrane
- desxemet membrane
- desvemet membrane
Etymology of DESCEMET MEMBRANE
The term "Descemet membrane" is named after the French physician, Jean Descemet (1732-1810), who was known for his contributions to ophthalmology. He described the structure in 1778 as the "membrane of the cornea". The word "membrane" in the name refers to the thin, sheet-like nature of this tissue, while "Descemet" pays tribute to Jean Descemet's important observation and understanding of its existence.
