title: Understanding the choroid.
abstract: Based on previous work, this paper describes the anatomical and functional characteristics of the choroidal vasculature, namely the choriocapillaris, the arterial and arteriovenous anastomosis, the segmental distribution of the short posterior ciliary arteries, and the choroidal veins. The characteristics of the choroidal innervation with reference to the sensory nerve endings are reviewed. Some features of Bruch's membrane may explain the fundoscopic and angiographic appearance of the angioid streaks and the role of its basement membranes in the formation and transport of drusen.
authors.affiliation: Department of Ophthalmology, Oporto Medical School, Hospital S. João, Oporto University, Porto, Portugal.
authors.forename: J
authors.initials: J
authors.lastname: Castro-Correia
mesh_terms: D000368:Aged; D000818:Animals; D001163:Arteriovenous Anastomosis / Q000033:anatomy & histology; D001808:Blood Vessels / Q000033:anatomy & histology; D016570:Bruch Membrane / Q000033:anatomy & histology; D002829:Choroid / Q000098:blood supply* / Q000294:innervation / Q000502:physiology; D006168:Guinea Pigs; D006801:Humans; D008875:Middle Aged; D011817:Rabbits; D051381:Rats