Choriocapillaris
An article about the choriocapillaris, a layer of capillaries in the eye.
Choriocapillaris[edit | edit source]
The choriocapillaris is a layer of capillaries found in the choroid, which is part of the eye. It is a critical component of the eye's vascular system, providing essential nutrients and oxygen to the outer retina, particularly the retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) and the photoreceptors.
Structure[edit | edit source]
The choriocapillaris is a dense network of capillaries located immediately adjacent to the Bruch's membrane, which separates it from the RPE. These capillaries are unique in that they are fenestrated, meaning they have small openings that allow for the exchange of larger molecules between the blood and the surrounding tissues. This feature is crucial for maintaining the health and function of the photoreceptors.
Function[edit | edit source]
The primary function of the choriocapillaris is to supply the outer retina with oxygen and nutrients. It plays a vital role in the metabolic support of the photoreceptors, which are responsible for converting light into neural signals. The choriocapillaris also helps in the removal of waste products from the retinal cells.
Clinical Significance[edit | edit source]
Disorders of the choriocapillaris can lead to significant visual impairment. Conditions such as age-related macular degeneration (AMD) are associated with changes in the choriocapillaris, including its degeneration or dysfunction. In AMD, the loss of choriocapillaris function can lead to the death of photoreceptors and subsequent vision loss.
Research[edit | edit source]
Ongoing research is focused on understanding the role of the choriocapillaris in various retinal diseases. Advances in imaging techniques, such as optical coherence tomography (OCT) and indocyanine green angiography, have improved our ability to study the choriocapillaris in vivo, leading to better diagnostic and therapeutic strategies.
Also see[edit | edit source]
| Fibrous tunic (outer) |
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|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Uvea/vascular tunic (middle) |
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| Retina (inner) |
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| Anatomical regions of the eye |
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| Other | |||||||
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Contributors: Prab R. Tumpati, MD
