Canal of schlemm

Canal of Schlemm

The Canal of Schlemm, also known as Schlemm's canal, is a circular lymphatic-like vessel in the eye that drains aqueous humor from the anterior chamber into the bloodstream. It is named after the German anatomist, Friedrich Schlemm, who discovered it.

Anatomy

The Canal of Schlemm is located in the sclera, the white outer layer of the eye, and is approximately 30 to 40 micrometers in diameter. It is situated at the junction of the cornea and the sclera, an area known as the limbus. The canal is lined with endothelial cells and is surrounded by collagen and elastic fibers.

Function

The primary function of the Canal of Schlemm is to drain the aqueous humor, a clear fluid that fills the anterior chamber of the eye, into the bloodstream. This process helps to maintain the correct intraocular pressure within the eye. If the canal becomes blocked, it can lead to increased intraocular pressure and potentially cause glaucoma, a serious eye condition that can result in vision loss.

Clinical significance

The Canal of Schlemm plays a crucial role in the pathophysiology of glaucoma. In open-angle glaucoma, the most common form of the disease, the canal can become partially blocked, leading to an increase in intraocular pressure. In closed-angle glaucoma, the canal can become completely blocked, causing a sudden and severe increase in intraocular pressure. Treatments for glaucoma often aim to increase the flow of aqueous humor through the Canal of Schlemm, either through medication or surgery.

See also

• Eye anatomy
• Glaucoma
• Intraocular pressure
• Aqueous humor