Which pathological change characterizes neurogenic KCS?

Which pathological change characterizes neurogenic KCS?

• A. Increased tears production
• B. Loss of parasympathetic innervation
• C. Overactive meibomian glands
• D. Infection of the cornea

Answer: (B)

Neurogenic keratoconjunctivitis sicca (KCS) is primarily characterized by a loss of parasympathetic innervation, which leads to a decrease in tear production. The tear film is essential for maintaining corneal health and protecting the ocular surface. When there is disruption in the innervation that stimulates tear production, the lacrimal glands do not function properly, resulting in dry eyes and associated complications. In neurogenic KCS, the affected autonomic pathways typically involve the facial nerve (cranial nerve VII) and the parasympathetic fibers that originate from the pterygopalatine ganglion, which is responsible for stimulating tear production. When these fibers are damaged or lost, the lacrimal glands are unable to produce adequate tears, leading to the symptoms of dryness and irritation that characterize the condition. This understanding clarifies the focus on the loss of parasympathetic innervation as the primary pathological change in neurogenic KCS, highlighting the importance of neuroanatomy in the function of tear production and overall ocular health.

Neurogenic keratoconjunctivitis sicca (KCS) is primarily characterized by a loss of parasympathetic innervation, which leads to a decrease in tear production. The tear film is essential for maintaining corneal health and protecting the ocular surface. When there is disruption in the innervation that stimulates tear production, the lacrimal glands do not function properly, resulting in dry eyes and associated complications.

In neurogenic KCS, the affected autonomic pathways typically involve the facial nerve (cranial nerve VII) and the parasympathetic fibers that originate from the pterygopalatine ganglion, which is responsible for stimulating tear production. When these fibers are damaged or lost, the lacrimal glands are unable to produce adequate tears, leading to the symptoms of dryness and irritation that characterize the condition.

This understanding clarifies the focus on the loss of parasympathetic innervation as the primary pathological change in neurogenic KCS, highlighting the importance of neuroanatomy in the function of tear production and overall ocular health.