Corneal dystrophy

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Corneal dystrophy
Synonyms	N/A
Pronounce	N/A
Specialty	N/A
Symptoms	Vision impairment, corneal opacity, corneal erosion
Complications	Vision loss, corneal scarring
Onset	Varies by type, often in childhood or adulthood
Duration	Chronic
Types	Epithelial, Stromal, Endothelial
Causes	Genetic disorder
Risks	Family history
Diagnosis	Slit-lamp examination, genetic testing
Differential diagnosis	Keratoconus, Fuchs' dystrophy
Prevention	N/A
Treatment	Corneal transplantation, phototherapeutic keratectomy, contact lenses
Medication	Lubricating eye drops, hypertonic saline
Prognosis	N/A
Frequency	Varies by type, some are rare
Deaths	Rarely life-threatening

Corneal dystrophy is a group of rare hereditary disorders characterized by bilateral abnormal deposition of substances in the transparent front part of the eye, the cornea.

Types

There are over 20 types of corneal dystrophy, which are usually classified according to their anatomical location and include:

• Anterior corneal dystrophy
• Stromal corneal dystrophy
• Posterior corneal dystrophy

Symptoms

The symptoms of corneal dystrophy can vary depending on the specific type and stage of the condition. Some people may not experience any symptoms, while others may have significant vision impairment. Symptoms can include:

• Blurred vision
• Pain in the eye
• Light sensitivity
• Corneal erosion

Causes

Corneal dystrophies are usually caused by abnormal genetic material inherited from parents. The genetic defect causes the cells in the cornea to produce abnormal proteins, which can accumulate and cause the cornea to become cloudy or irregular.

Diagnosis

The diagnosis of corneal dystrophy can be made by an ophthalmologist using a variety of tests, including:

• Slit lamp examination
• Corneal topography
• Genetic testing

Treatment

Treatment for corneal dystrophy depends on the type and severity of the condition. Options can include:

• Medication
• Corneal cross-linking
• Corneal transplant

See also

• Eye disease
• Genetic disorder
• Vision impairment