Anterior ciliary arteries

The Anterior Ciliary Arteries are a group of arteries that supply blood to the front part of the eye, specifically the ciliary body and the conjunctiva. They are branches of the ophthalmic artery, which is itself a branch of the internal carotid artery.

Anatomy

Diagram showing the origins of the anterior ciliary arteries.

There are usually seven anterior ciliary arteries, two from the muscular branches, two from the lacrimal artery, and three from the long ciliary arteries. They pierce the sclera, the white outer layer of the eye, at different points, and distribute to the ciliary body and the conjunctiva.

Function

The anterior ciliary arteries play a crucial role in maintaining the health of the eye. They supply oxygenated blood to the ciliary body, which produces the aqueous humor, a clear fluid that nourishes the cornea and the lens of the eye. They also supply the conjunctiva, a thin layer that covers the front of the eye and the inside of the eyelids.

Clinical Significance

Disruption of the anterior ciliary arteries can lead to serious eye conditions. For example, anterior ischemic optic neuropathy can occur if blood flow through these arteries is blocked. This condition can cause sudden vision loss.

See Also

• Ophthalmic artery
• Ciliary body
• Conjunctiva