The human cornea is the most densely innervated surface tissue in the body. In addition to their important sensory functions, corneal nerves help maintain the functional integrity of the ocular surface by releasing trophic substances that promote corneal epithelial homeostasis and by activating brainstem circuits that stimulate reflex tear production and blinking. Consequently, damage to corneal nerves as the result of surgery, trauma or disease leads to diminished corneal sensitivity and possible transient or long-term alterations in the functional integrity of the ocular surface.




