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Corneal neovascularization can lead to a devastating disease process that involves the breakdown of the limbal barrier and the formation of blood vessels in the cornea, leading to severe visual impairment. This review discusses the delicate balance between antiangiogenic and angiogenic factors that govern the antiangiogenic privilege of the cornea. Current treatment methods, clinical trials, and future prospects in the management of corneal neovascularization also are discussed., (Copyright © 2011 American Academy of Ophthalmology. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.)

Angiogenesis is the formation of new blood vessels from pre-existing vasculature. Pathologic angiogenesis in the eye can lead to severe visual impairment. In our review, we discuss the roles of both pro-angiogenic and anti-angiogenic molecular players in corneal angiogenesis, proliferative diabetic retinopathy, exudative macular degeneration and retinopathy of prematurity, highlighting novel targets that have emerged over the past decade.