Buy the Book

Print This Topic Email This Topic

Pronunciations conjunctivitis keratitis keratoconus keratomalacia keratopathy retina

The cornea is the domed covering in the front of the eye that protects the iris and lens and helps focus light on the retina. It is composed of cells, protein, and fluid. The cornea is normally as stiff as a fingernail, transparent, and very sensitive to touch. Corneal disease or damage can cause pain and loss of vision.

Last full review/revision February 2003