CORNEA & EXTERNAL DISEASE
CORNEAL DYSTROPHY
 WHAT IS CORNEAL DYSTROPHY?
Corneal dystrophy is an inherited eye
condition that affects the delicate inner layer of the cornea called the
endothelium. The endothelium functions as a pump-like mechanism which
constantly removes fluids from the cornea to maintain clarity of vision.
Gradually over time, patients with corneal dystrophy lose these
endothelium cells. Once lost, they do not grow back. Instead the
remaining cells begin to spread out to fill in the empty spaces. The
pump becomes less efficient causing the cornea to swell and cloud over
reducing visual acuity.
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WHAT CAUSES CORNEAL DYSTROPHY?
Slightly more common in women than
men, corneal dystrophy often develops between the ages of 30 and 40 and
is an inherited condition which can be controlled but not cured. It
typically affects both eyes.
WHAT ARE THE SYMPTOMS?
Common symptoms include hazy vision that is
often more noticeable in the morning, fluctuating vision, glare, light
sensitivity and a sandy, gritty sensation in the eyes.
HOW IS CORNEAL DYSTROPHY DIAGNOSED?
Corneal dystrophy is detected by
examining the cornea with a slit lamp microscope which magnifies the
endothelium cells thousands of times. The ongoing progression of the
disorder is monitored with pachymetry testing to measure the thickness
of the cornea. Specular microscopy is also used to monitor the number,
density and quality of the endothelial cells.
WHAT ARE THE TREATMENT OPTIONS?
Medications are used to control
blurred vision that results from corneal swelling. Salt solutions in the
forms of drops and ointments are also prescribed to draw fluid form the
cornea and reduce swelling and improve vision.
Surgical intervention is indicated when the vision deteriorates to
the point that the ability to function normally is impaired. At this
point, a corneal transplant may be indicated.
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