[Limbal diseases].

The limbus plays an essential role in maintaining a healthy ocular surface as the stem cells which are responsible for corneal epithelial regeneration are located here. Limbal diseases include neoplastic, degenerative, immunological, infectious and hereditary alterations. In severe cases, limbal stem cell deficiency can result, which is associated with a loss of the ability for regeneration of the corneal epithelium. This may lead to a relevant impairment of visual acuity, depending on the severity. This review article focuses on the diagnostic procedures and treatment options for limbal diseases.