Limbal stem cell deficiencies and ocular surface reconstruction

A smooth corneal surface of epithelial cells supporting an intact tear film is essential for good vision. In some diseased or injured eyes, however, not enough epithelial cells are generated to replace those lost due to natural turnover. Results can be devastating, and functional vision is often lost altogether. Reconstructing the ocular surface in situations such as these is one of the most serious challenges facing the eyecare profession today. This article describes a pioneering new strategy, which now makes this feasible