Fuchs' endothelial dystrophy
Fuchs' endothelial dystrophy is a hereditary ophthalmic condition in which the endothelium of the cornea of the eye fails to function with age, resulting in small whitish deposits of hyalin (a clear glassy material that can result from the degeneration of some types of tissues, including epithelial cells) forming on the inner surface of the cornea.
Initial symptoms of Fuchs' endothelial dystrophy may include blurred vision on awakening, that gradually clears as the day progresses. However, that symptom alone is not enough to indicate Fuchs' endothelial dystrophy - as for all medical concerns, professional advice should be sought if and when any problems arise.
Fuchs' endothelial dystrophy is generally only seen in older
people and may be an intermittent issue initially, often with only one
eye affected in the early stages.
If severe, Fuchs' endothelial dystrophy can lead onto bullous keratopathy which involves thickening and swelling of the cornea.
Treatment of Fuchs' endothelial dystrophy varies according
to the severity of the case:
- Mild cases of early-stage Fuchs' endothelial dystrophy may be treated with prescription hypertonic drops.
- In some cases a therapeutic soft lens (sometimes called a "bandage lens") may be suggested to help ease discomfort.
- In severe cases, treatment of Fuchs' endothelial dystrophy may involve keratoplasty.
Fuchs' endothelial dystrophy is named after Austrian
Ophthalmologist, Ernst Fuchs (1831 - 1930).
More about Ophthalmology:
This section includes short definitions
of many diseases, disorders, and conditions of the eyes and visual system.
For definitions of other terms in this category, choose from the list
to the left (but note that this is not a complete/exhaustive list).
Other related pages include
- A diagram of the eye
- Definitions and descriptions of the parts of the eye
- A concise description of the human retina
- Definitions of parts of the retina
- Clinical and surgical procedures re. eyes and human visual system
For further information see also our pages of books about ophthalmology.
The following books may also be of interest:
