ANATOMY & PHYSIOLOGY A  B  C  D  E  F  G  H  I  J  K  L  M  N  O  P  Q  R  S  T  U  V  W  X  Y  Z                    HOME ABOUT CATEGORIES SITE MAP COPYRIGHT ADVERTISE CONTACT entire Web this site conjunctiva Credit: St Luke's Cataract & Laser Institute The thin, transparent, mucous membrane that covers the outer surface of the eye. It begins at the outer edge of the cornea and covers the visible part of the sclera and lines the inside of the eyelids. It is nourished by tiny blood vessels that are barely visible to the naked eye. The conjunctiva also secretes oils and mucous that moisten and lubricate the eye. Medical conditions of the conjunctiva Inflammation of the conjunctiva is known as conjunctivitis, or, commonly, pink-eye. A pinguecula is a small, benign, yellowish spot on the conjunctiva over the exposed areas of the white of the eye. Pingueculas are sometimes attributed to ultraviolet radiation in sunlight, and are common in elderly people. In some cases, pingueculas may be removed for cosmetic reasons. Related category    • ANATOMY AND PHYSIOLOGY Also on this site: Encyclopedia of Alternative Energy & Sustainable Living Encyclopedia of History Transport Concepts & Designs (partner site) BACK TO TOP