The term "Limbus Corneae" refers to the junction between the cornea of the eye and the sclera, which is the outer layer of the eyeball. The spelling of this word can be explained using the International Phonetic Alphabet (IPA). The first part, "Limbus", is pronounced as /ˈlɪmbəs/, while the second part, "Corneae", is pronounced as /kɔːˈniːi/. Together, the word is pronounced as /ˈlɪmbəs kɔːˈniːi/, with stress on the first syllable of "Limbus".
Limbus corneae refers to the anatomical region located at the border between the cornea, the transparent front surface of the eye, and the sclera, the white outer layer of the eye. It can also be called the corneoscleral junction.
The limbus corneae is characterized by a slightly elevated ridge or lip-like structure, separating the cornea and the sclera. It serves as an important transition zone between the different tissues of the eye, playing a critical role in maintaining the structural integrity and function of the eye.
The limbus corneae is home to a specialized area known as the limbal stem cell niche. These stem cells are responsible for continuously renewing the surface epithelial layer on the cornea, contributing to its clarity and health. Therefore, the limbus corneae serves as an essential source of cells for corneal repair and regeneration.
Additionally, the limbus corneae contains blood vessels that supply oxygen and nutrients to the surrounding tissues, promoting their overall health and function. It is also a significant site of immune responses, helping to protect the eye from infections and other diseases.
In summary, the limbus corneae is a crucial part of the eye, serving as a transition zone between the cornea and the sclera, housing limbal stem cells, facilitating blood supply, and supporting immune responses.
The margin of the cornea where it is overlapped by the sclera.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
The word Limbus Corneae has Latin origins.
The term Limbus comes from the Latin word limbus, which means border or edge.
Corneae is derived from the Latin word cornea, which refers to the clear, transparent, and curved outer layer of the eyeball.
Therefore, the etymology of Limbus Corneae can be understood as the combination of the Latin words limbus and corneae, which together mean the border or edge of the cornea.