Descemetmembrán

Descemet's membrane is the deepest layer of the cornea, located between the stroma and the endothelium. It is a thin, transparent sheet, approximately 3-8 micrometers thick. In infants and children, Descemet's membrane is very thin and homogeneous, but it thickens with age and develops a layered appearance, particularly in its posterior region. The membrane is acellular and composed primarily of collagen, specifically type IV collagen, and proteoglycans. It is produced by the corneal endothelium throughout life.

The integrity of Descemet's membrane is crucial for maintaining corneal clarity and function. It acts as a barrier, preventing stromal edema by resisting the passage of fluid from the anterior chamber into the cornea. The endothelium, situated behind Descemet's membrane, actively pumps excess fluid out of the stroma, a process essential for corneal transparency.

Damage to Descemet's membrane can occur due to trauma, surgery, or various corneal diseases. Conditions like congenital glaucoma, posterior polymorphous corneal dystrophy, and Fuchs' endothelial dystrophy can affect this layer. If Descemet's membrane is significantly damaged or detached, it can lead to corneal edema and blurred vision. Surgical interventions, such as Descemet stripping endothelial keratoplasty (DSEK) and Descemet membrane endothelial keratoplasty (DMEK), aim to replace diseased or damaged endothelium along with Descemet's membrane to restore corneal clarity.