Cornea and external diseases affect the cornea and the outer parts of your eye. The cornea is the protective outer layer of the eye and plays a crucial role in focusing vision. Common conditions include keratoconus and other thinning disorders, corneal edema and corneal dystrophies.

External eye diseases can affect the conjunctiva, eyelids and other outer parts of the eye. They include infections, inflammations, dry eye and allergic reactions, such as conjunctivitis.

At Northwestern Medicine, we diagnose and treat all cornea and external diseases. Our specialists use advanced diagnostic tools and offer treatments to restore or slow the progression of the disease as much as possible. They will work with you to determine the best treatment to meet your individual needs.