The sclerotic is another term
for the sclera
(also known as the the sclerotic
coat).
The sclerotic is the tough white sheath that forms
the outer-layer of the ball.
In all cases these names are due to the the extreme density and hardness
of the sclerotic (sclerotic layer). It is a firm fibrous
membrane that maintains the shape of the eye as an approximately globe
shape. It is much thicker towards the back/posterior aspect of the eye
than towards the front/anterior of the eye.
The white sclerotic continues around the eye; most of
which is not visible while the eyeball is located in its socket within
the face/skull. The main area of the eye that is not covered by the area
is the front part of the eye that is protected by the transparent cornea
instead.
The Structure of the Sclera
The sclerotic is composed of white fibrous tissue intermixed
with fine elastic fibers and corpuscles of flattened connective-tissue.
These fibers are grouped together in bundles.
Blood supply to the sclera is via small (but not very numerous) interlinking
capillaries.
The nerves connected to the sclera are from the ciliary
nerves.
For further detail we recommend Gray's
Anatomy - an excellent general text that is informative yet inexpensive. |
