Limbal stem cell deficiency

What it means

A condition characterized by a loss or deficiency of the stem cells in the limbus that are vital for re-population of the corneal epithelium and to the barrier function of the limbus.

The corneal epithelium covers the corneal surface and plays a major role in protection and transparency. Epithelial cells are shed regularly and replaced by stem cell sources located at the limbus, a rim of tissue located at the junction of the cornea and sclera. The limbal epithelial stem cells reside in specific regions at the limbus known as the limbal stem cell niches. Damage to the stem cells or disruption of the niches may lead to Limbal Stem Cell Deficiency. In the absence of a healthy corneal epithelium, the conjunctiva proliferates over the cornea resulting in opacification and vascularization, which in turn may lead to reduced vision, pain, and photophobia.

Rare diseases that can present with this5

The range is how often this sign appears among people diagnosed with each disease — it is not a probability of having any of them. Many of these signs also occur in common, non-rare conditions. A sign on this page is a conversation to have with a clinician, not a conclusion.

Part of the broader category