What term describes a thin grayish-white arc near the edge of the cornea that accompanies normal aging?

What term describes a thin grayish-white arc near the edge of the cornea that accompanies normal aging?

• A. Arcus senilis
• B. Conjunctivitis
• C. Blepharitis
• D. Keratitis

Answer: (A)

A thin grayish-white arc near the edge of the cornea that accompanies normal aging is called arcus senilis. This happens when small lipid deposits build up in the peripheral cornea around the corneal-scleral junction (the limbus). It’s a common, benign change of aging and usually doesn’t affect vision or cause symptoms, often appearing in both eyes. This differs from conjunctivitis, which is inflammation of the conjunctiva that typically causes redness, itching, and discharge; blepharitis, which is inflammation of the eyelid margins with crusting and irritation; and keratitis, which is inflammation or infection of the cornea that can cause pain, light sensitivity, and vision problems.

A thin grayish-white arc near the edge of the cornea that accompanies normal aging is called arcus senilis. This happens when small lipid deposits build up in the peripheral cornea around the corneal-scleral junction (the limbus). It’s a common, benign change of aging and usually doesn’t affect vision or cause symptoms, often appearing in both eyes.

This differs from conjunctivitis, which is inflammation of the conjunctiva that typically causes redness, itching, and discharge; blepharitis, which is inflammation of the eyelid margins with crusting and irritation; and keratitis, which is inflammation or infection of the cornea that can cause pain, light sensitivity, and vision problems.