Cellular Neuropathology of Ocular Pain

Ocular pain is a distressing sensory and emotional experience predominantly associated with the tissues of the anterior segment of the eyeball and the orbit because ocular pathologies such as retinal detachment or degeneration, cataracts, and glaucoma often occur almost without pain. However, with the increasing number of surgeries (such as cataract or photorefractive surgeries), the more frequent use of contact lenses, and, increased exposure to artificial environments (including air conditioning, video display terminals, and air pollutants) ocular pain and itch have become more prevalent. Hence a better understanding of the underlying mechanisms of ocular pain and itch are needed in order to develop improved therapies and treatments.

Ocular pain originates with the activity of the ocular sensory nerves in response to potential or real damage to the tissues. However, this activity is also altered after a lesion or inflammation of the tissues, and with age and systemic pathologies, that sometimes lead to neurogenic inflammation or neuropathic pain. This Research Topic aims to compile Original Research Articles and Review papers about the cellular neuropathological mechanisms that lead to ocular pain due to surgery, lesions, inflammation, contact lens wearing, aging, or systemic pathologies. Studies about the processes and mechanisms involved in ocular pain and itch using animal models, pharmacology, etc. are welcomed, but also in humans. The goal of this Research Topic is to improve the knowledge of the mechanisms involved in ocular pain and itching to improve or provide specific therapies and treatments.