Which statement correctly describes the third stage of corneal neovascularization?

Which statement correctly describes the third stage of corneal neovascularization?

• A. Endothelial spikes/sprouts extending from limbal arcades toward the central cornea
• B. Filling of preexisting limbal capillary plexus
• C. Sprouts from canaliculi form true vessels at corneal depth
• D. Regression after the critical period

Answer: (C)

During corneal neovascularization, vessels invade in a staged pattern from the limbus into the cornea. The third stage is when sprouts from canaliculi extend and form true, lumenized vessels at corneal depth, creating functional microvasculature within the stroma. This maturation signal is what sets the third stage apart: vessels have developed lumens and are perfused deeper in the cornea. Earlier steps involve endothelial sprouts from the limbal arcades toward the central cornea and filling of the preexisting limbal capillary plexus, while regression describes vessels diminishing after the stimulus wanes.

During corneal neovascularization, vessels invade in a staged pattern from the limbus into the cornea. The third stage is when sprouts from canaliculi extend and form true, lumenized vessels at corneal depth, creating functional microvasculature within the stroma. This maturation signal is what sets the third stage apart: vessels have developed lumens and are perfused deeper in the cornea. Earlier steps involve endothelial sprouts from the limbal arcades toward the central cornea and filling of the preexisting limbal capillary plexus, while regression describes vessels diminishing after the stimulus wanes.