Ciliary processes

Ciliary processes are a part of the eye that play a crucial role in the production of aqueous humor, which is the clear fluid filling the front of the eye. They are located in the ciliary body, an important structure in the uvea of the eye.

Anatomy

The ciliary processes are a series of radial ridges, or folds, that extend from the ciliary body towards the lens of the eye. There are typically around 70-80 ciliary processes in a human eye, but this number can vary. Each process is covered by a double layer of epithelium.

Function

The primary function of the ciliary processes is the production of aqueous humor. This fluid provides nutrients to the lens and the cornea, which do not have their own blood supply. The ciliary processes also play a role in the accommodation of the eye, which is the process by which the eye changes optical power to maintain a clear image on the retina.

Clinical significance

Dysfunction or damage to the ciliary processes can lead to a number of eye conditions. For example, overproduction or under-drainage of aqueous humor can lead to glaucoma, a condition that can cause blindness if left untreated. Inflammation of the ciliary body and ciliary processes, known as cyclitis, can also occur.

See also

• Ciliary muscle
• Zonule of Zinn
• Schlemm's canal