Purpose: The aim of this study was to observe the normal human corneas in vivo, using the Scanning Slit Confocal Microscope "Confoscan P4" (Tomey).
Materials and methods: 50 corneas of 25 patients, aged 18 to 45 (mean 26), 10 women and 15 men were examined by means of the Confocal Slit Scanning Microscope. Obtained results were analysed in relation to patients' age and sex. The comparison of right and left cornea in each patient was performed. The structure of the epithelium, stromal keratocytes in the anterior, middle and rear part of the stroma, the pattern of the nerve plexus, the appearance of Bowman's and Descement's membranes and the condition of the endothelium were observed.
Results: In the analyzed group of patients there were no differences in the findings between the right and left eye. No age and sex related changes were observed.
Conclusion: Confocal Scanning Microscope allows for real-time, noninvasive observation of the human corneal cell structure in vivo and is capable of evaluation of corneal morphology and physiology.