In: Biology
Explain why eyes are the preferred portal of entry for most microbes.
The most effective defence mechanism of the body lies within the blood. B-lymphocytes produce an army of antibodies in the presence of antigen. T-lymphocytes help B-lymphocyte in providing defence to the body. Sclera, the outermost layer of the eye is almost devoid of blood supply thus the defence mechanism of the eye is not good. Thus it helps the most microbes to survive in the eye ans start multiplying. The surface tissues of the eye and the ocular adnexa are colonized by the bacteria like streptococci, staphylococci and corynebacteria. Secondly, the pupil is the space that allow the light to fall on the lens for vision. Microbes can easily enter the eyes through pupil. Thirdly, eyes lack the largest organ of the body skin that protect the body from various microbes attack. But eyes don't have that covering to protect it from the microbes. Thus, eyes become the preferred portal for most microbes.