Granular corneal dystrophy

Granular Corneal Dystrophy (pronounced: grăn′yə-lər kôr′nē-əl dĭs′trə-fē) is a rare, genetic eye disorder that affects the cornea, the clear front surface of the eye.

Etymology

The term "Granular Corneal Dystrophy" is derived from the Latin word "granulum" meaning "small grain", and the Greek words "korone" meaning "pupil of the eye", and "dystrophy" meaning "bad nourishment".

Definition

Granular Corneal Dystrophy is characterized by the development of small, sand-like opacities in the cornea, which can lead to vision impairment. These opacities are caused by an abnormal accumulation of a protein called transforming growth factor beta-induced protein (TGFBI).

Symptoms

Symptoms of Granular Corneal Dystrophy typically begin in childhood and may include blurred vision, photophobia (sensitivity to light), and recurrent corneal erosion (painful breakdown of the cornea's outermost layer).

Causes

Granular Corneal Dystrophy is caused by mutations in the TGFBI gene, which provides instructions for making a protein that is found in many tissues, including the cornea. This protein is thought to play a role in cell adhesion and the regulation of cell growth and division.

Treatment

Treatment for Granular Corneal Dystrophy may include the use of lubricating eye drops or ointments, corneal transplantation, or laser treatment (phototherapeutic keratectomy).

Related Terms

• Corneal Dystrophy
• TGFBI gene
• Phototherapeutic Keratectomy
• Corneal Erosion
• Photophobia
• Opacities

External links

• Medical encyclopedia article on Granular corneal dystrophy
• Wikipedia's article - Granular corneal dystrophy

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