A Corneal Dystrophy is a condition in which one or more parts of the cornea lose their normal clarity due to a build-up of cloudy material. There are over 20 Corneal Dystrophies, with the most common including:
- Anterior Basement Membrane Dystrophy
- Corneal Stromal Dystrophies (macular, granular or lattice)
- Fuchs’ Dystrophy
Symptoms of Corneal Dystrophies
The symptoms of Corneal Dystrophies vary greatly and can include:
- Visual impairment
- Pain
- Permanent vision loss
- No vision problems at all
Common Traits of Corneal Dystrophies
- Inherited
- Affect both eyes
- Usually progress gradually
- Not caused by external factors, such as injury or diet
- Usually begin in one of the five corneal layers and may later spread to nearby layers
- Usually do not affect other parts of the body
- Not related to diseases affecting other parts of the eye or body
- Can occur in healthy males or females
Dr. Rapoza may discover that you have a Corneal Dystrophy during a routine eye exam. If so, he can discuss treatment options, if indicated, to help you protect your vision. Schedule your eye exam today.
Corneal Degenerations
A Corneal Degeneration is a condition in which one or more parts of the cornea loses its normal shape or develops deposition of excessive material such as fibrotic tissue or calcium. The more common degenerations encountered include:
- Band Keratopathy (deposition of calcium)
- Keratoconus (abnormal weakness of collagen resulting in corneal warpage)
- Saltzmann’s Nodular Degeneration (deposition of fibrotic scars on the surface of the cornea)
Appointments/Scheduling: 800-635-0489
Locations in Boston – Waltham – Danvers