spojivku

The spojivka, known in English as the conjunctiva, is a thin, transparent mucous membrane that lines the inner surfaces of the eyelids (palpebral conjunctiva) and covers the anterior sclera (bulbar conjunctiva). It forms the conjunctival sac at the eyelid margins and serves as a barrier between the external environment and the eye.

Anatomy and histology: The conjunctiva consists of a stratified epithelium over a loose connective tissue stroma that contains goblet cells, which secrete mucins for tear film lubrication. It is divided into three regions: palpebral (lining the eyelids), bulbar (covering the sclera), and the fornix (the conjunctival sac at the junction). The conjunctiva also houses immune tissue, collectively called conjunctival-associated lymphoid tissue (CALT).

Function: It provides mechanical protection, contributes to tear film stability through mucin production, and participates in immune defense against pathogens entering the eye. Its rich vascular network can cause redness when inflamed.

Clinical relevance: Common conditions include conjunctivitis (viral, bacterial, allergic), pinguecula (yellowish degeneration on the limbus) and pterygium (growth onto the cornea), and dry-eye–related irritation. Injury or contact lens use can cause conjunctival inflammation or scarring.

Diagnosis and treatment: Diagnosis is typically by clinical examination with a slit lamp. Management depends on the cause: supportive care with lubricating drops, antihistamines for allergies, topical antibiotics for bacterial infections, or antiviral agents for certain viral conjunctivitis. Severe or persistent cases warrant ophthalmologic evaluation.