Health Dictionary
Reliable, easy-to-read patient information on common medical conditions — written in plain language, free of jargon, and grounded in current evidence. Browse the most frequent diagnoses, understand what they mean for everyday life, and learn which steps and questions help you have a focused conversation with your doctor.
Corneal neovascularization
Introduction
Overview
Overview
Corneal neovascularization is the excessive ingrowth of blood vessels from the limbal vascular plexus into the cornea, caused by a low reception of oxygen, which is generally not received from the bloodstream, but through the air. One of the most common causes is contact lens wear, and to a greater extent, continued use of extended wear contacts. The condition could threaten one’s eyesight in the elevated stages, which is one of the primary reasons eye care physicians strongly recommend routine (annual) exams for contact lens patients.
Reduction of neovascularization has been achieved in rats by chemical cauterization.[1]