Corneal injury describes an injury to the cornea, the crystal clear (transparent) tissue covering the front of the eye.

See also: Corneal ulcers and infections

The cornea works with the lens of the eye to focus images on the retina. Injuries to the cornea are common.

Superficial (surface) corneal injuries, called corneal abrasions, may be caused by:

• Something getting into the eye (such as sand or dust)
• Overuse of contact lenses or lenses that don't fit correctly
• Exposure to ultraviolet radiation

You are more likely to develop a corneal injury if you work in a dusty environment, are exposed to sunlight or artificial ultraviolet light for long periods of time, or if you overuse or have ill-fitting contact lenses.

Penetrating (deep) corneal injuries may occur with major trauma. High speed particles, such as chips from hammering metal on metal, are particularly dangerous.