Scleral spur

Scleral spur is a part of the eye's anatomy that plays a crucial role in the regulation of intraocular pressure. It is a circular band of fibrous tissue that extends from the sclera, the white outer layer of the eye, towards the center of the eye. The scleral spur is located between the trabecular meshwork and the ciliary muscle, two other important structures in the eye.

Etymology

The term "scleral spur" is derived from the Latin word "sclera," meaning hard, and the Old English word "spur," meaning a sharp projection. This name is fitting as the scleral spur is a hard, sharp projection from the sclera.

Anatomy

The scleral spur is a ring-shaped band of fibrous tissue that extends from the sclera towards the center of the eye. It is located between the trabecular meshwork and the ciliary muscle. The trabecular meshwork is a network of tiny channels through which the aqueous humor, the fluid in the front of the eye, drains out of the eye. The ciliary muscle is a ring of smooth muscle in the eye's middle layer (vascular layer) that controls accommodation for viewing objects at varying distances and regulates the flow of aqueous humor into Schlemm's canal.

Function

The primary function of the scleral spur is to anchor the trabecular meshwork and the ciliary muscle. By doing so, it plays a crucial role in the regulation of intraocular pressure. When the ciliary muscle contracts, it pulls on the scleral spur, which in turn pulls on the trabecular meshwork. This action opens up the trabecular meshwork, allowing the aqueous humor to drain out of the eye more easily, thereby reducing intraocular pressure.

Clinical significance

Abnormalities or damage to the scleral spur can lead to problems with intraocular pressure regulation, which can in turn lead to glaucoma, a group of eye conditions that damage the optic nerve and can result in vision loss and blindness.

See also

• Eye anatomy
• Intraocular pressure
• Glaucoma

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