Corneal ulcer pathophysiology

Editor-In-Chief: C. Michael Gibson, M.S., M.D. [1]

Corneal ulcer Microchapters
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Overview
Classification
Pathophysiology
Causes
Differentiating Corneal Ulcer from other Diseases
Epidemiology and Demographics
Risk Factors
Natural History, Complications and Prognosis
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History and Symptoms
Physical Examination
Laboratory Findings
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Corneal healing

An ulcer of the cornea heals by two methods: migration of surrounding epithelial cells followed by mitosis (dividing) of the cells, and introduction of blood vessels from the conjunctiva. Superficial small ulcers heal rapidly by the first method. However, larger or deeper ulcers often require the presence of blood vessels to supply inflammatory cells. White blood cells and fibroblasts produce granulation tissue and then scar tissue, effectively healing the cornea.