Fuchs' Dystrophy

Fuchs' Dystrophy is an eye disease that affects the cornea, the clear dome-like structure on the front part of the eye. As Fuchs' Dystrophy develops, corneal cells that line the back side of the cornea begin to change shape and die off. The function of these cells is to pump fluid out of the cornea, keeping it clear, tight and compact. This ensures clearer, sharper vision. When these cells stop functioning properly, fluid builds up within the cornea causing the normal transparent cornea to become cloudy and unhealthy.

Many patients with Fuchs' Dystrophy may not even know they have the condition. Early symptoms begin with fluctuating blurred vision that seems to be worse upon wakening but improves slightly as the day goes on. Although the disease may be apparent in their 30s, people with the condition do not typically complain of symptoms until their 50s or 60s. As the disease progresses, vision may fluctuate more and appear hazy. Lights may appear to have halos around them or glare. The cornea may become thickened and cloudy. In more advanced forms, the cornea may form painful fluid-filled blisters. Vision loss can also occur.

Fuchs' is mainly a genetically autosomal dominate condition that is inherited from parents, with about half of the children carrying the gene for the disease. Some people may have the condition more severely than their parents had. Women appear to have Fuchs' Dystrophy more commonly than men.

Early treatment of symptoms caused by Fuchs' include the following:

• Frequent use of artificial tears
• Use of 5% sodium chloride drops or ointment
• Applied dry or heated air

Treatment for advanced symptoms of Fuchs' Dystrophy may include corneal transplant.

If you have Fuchs' Dystrophy, you should return for all examinations and follow up visits with your eye doctor. People with Fuchs Dystrophy can have frequent changes in their vision that require a new eyeglass prescription. Also, you should be followed closely to monitor the potential for more serious complications or the development of corneal scarring.

_Source:

_{Catania, Louis J. Primary Care of the Anterior Segment, Second Edition. Appleton & Lange, 1995.}