21st February 2024

The Conjunctiva

The conjunctiva is a thin, transparent membrane that lines the inner surface of the eyelids and covers the anterior part of the eyeball’s sclera. Its function primarily is to protect and lubricate the eye. The conjunctiva secretes mucin, which provides a stable tear film to keep the eye moist. 

The conjunctiva consists of three layers: the palpebral conjunctiva lines the inner surface and is the deepest layer of the eyelid; the bulbar conjunctiva covers the sclera; and the fornix is the loose, folded portion where the palpebral and bulbar conjunctiva meet. 

Clinical relevance: Conjunctiva can commonly become inflamed due to several causes, including bacterial, viral, and allergic conjunctivitis. It usually presents with a pink eye with redness, itching and discharge. Pinguecula and pterygium are growths on the conjunctiva that usually develop following chronic exposure to ultraviolet light.