[3] The RPE is composed of a single layer of hexagonal cells that are densely packed with pigment granules.

When seen in section, each cell consists of an outer non-pigmented part containing a large oval nucleus and an inner pigmented portion which extends as a series of straight thread-like processes between the rods, this being especially the case when the eye is exposed to light.

The RPE has several functions,[4] namely, light absorption, epithelial transport, spatial ion buffering, visual cycle, phagocytosis, secretion and immune modulation.

Gardner syndrome is characterized by FAP (familial adenomatous polyps), osseous and soft tissue tumors, retinal pigment epithelium hypertrophy and impacted teeth.

[9] This article incorporates text in the public domain from page 1016 of the 20th edition of Gray's Anatomy (1918)