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Analysis of Globular Cells in Corneal Nerve Vortex
Ran Hao1,2, Ziyuan Liu1,2, Yilin Chou1,2
1Department of Ophthalmology, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing, China.
Frontiers in Medicine
|March 11, 2022
Summary
Globular cells in the cornea exhibit distinct distribution patterns and features, differing from Langerhans cells. These cells are linked to chronic meibomian gland dysfunction and ocular surface irritation.
Area of Science:
- Ophthalmology
- Immunology
- Cell Biology
Background:
- Globular cells, a type of dendritic cell (DC) in the cornea, were poorly understood.
- Investigating their characteristics is crucial for understanding ocular surface immunity and pathology.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the morphological and distribution characteristics of corneal globular cells.
- To explore their clinical correlations with ocular surface conditions.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective analysis of 836 eyes using in vivo confocal microscopy (IVCM).
- Evaluation of globular cell morphology, distribution, and co-existence with Langerhans cells (LCs).
- Correlation analysis with ocular surface symptoms, signs, and Meibomian gland dysfunction (Meiboscore).
Main Results:
- Three globular cell distribution patterns identified: scattered (57.66%), aggregated (13.52%), and absent (28.83%).
- Aggregated globular cells (Type 2) correlated with older age and higher Meiboscore.
- Dendritic globular cells showed a higher Meiboscore compared to non-dendritic forms.
Conclusions:
- Globular cells possess unique distribution patterns and biological features distinct from LCs.
- Their presence is associated with long-term meibomian gland dysfunction and ocular surface irritation.
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