[Early alterations of the conjunctiva after alkali-burning (author's transl)].

Early alterations of the conjunctiva after alkaliburning (with 0.25 N NaOH) are described. After chemical damage, there is a nearly total loss of conjunctival epithelium, with simultaneous marked edema in the lower conjunctival parts. Alterations of the surface are examined by scanning electronic microscopy (SEM). Within 24 h marked infiltration of round cells into the conjunctival stroma takes place. After burning, we find a rapid decrease in the ATP level in the conjunctiva to about one-tenth of the normal value, whereas glucose and lactate showed only small alterations before and after chemical injury.