LaserVision

What is Fuch’s Dystrophy?

Fuch’s endothelial dystrophy (FED) is a slow, progressive disease characterised by a gradual loss of endothelial cells from the inner layer of the cornea. If the number of cells drops below a critical density the cornea will begin to become cloudy and blur the vision. Although early signs of the dystrophy can be seen in people in their 30s and 40s, the disease doesn’t usually affect the vision until the person reaches their 60s or later. Thankfully, many patients may have microscopic signs of FED without ever having any significant visual symptoms.

What are the Symptoms?

  • Vision is blurred and foggy (worse in the morning upon waking)
  • In early-moderate cases, vision will typically improve over the course of the day
  • In more advanced cases, the vision may be consistently reduced
  • Halos and glare

What are the Causes?

Collectively, corneal endothelial cells form a pump which clears fluid from the middle layer of the cornea known as the stroma. This helps to maintain the natural transparency of the cornea which is pivotal to clear vision. In Fuchs dystrophy, these endothelial cells deteriorate and their total number declines; causing the cornea to swell and cloud the sight.

There is a known hereditary link to the development of Fuchs dystrophy, however, the genetic association is not fully understood.

Causes
Causes

What are the Causes?

Collectively, corneal endothelial cells form a pump which clears fluid from the middle layer of the cornea known as the stroma. This helps to maintain the natural transparency of the cornea which is pivotal to clear vision. In Fuchs dystrophy, these endothelial cells deteriorate and their total number declines; causing the cornea to swell and cloud the sight.

There is a known hereditary link to the development of Fuchs dystrophy, however, the genetic association is not fully understood.

What is the Diagnosis?

Patients with subtle corneal changes may simply require routine monitoring by a corneal specialist. If the dystrophy begins to impact the sight, sodium chloride 5% eye drops can be prescribed which draws water out of the cornea via osmosis. In more advanced cases, a corneal graft may be considered more appropriate. The two main forms of this graft procedure, DSAEK and DMEK are both available at Laser Vision. Consultant Ophthalmologist, Mike Tappin, played a role in the development of the pioneering technique of endothelial cell transplantation now known as DMEK; being the first surgeon in the UK to perform this technique in 2005.

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If you’d like some more information or to discuss this condition with one of our experts, simply drop us a line or give us a call and we’d be delighted to speak with you.
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