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 the diagram
of the eye, and definitions
of parts of the eye, a description
of the human retina, and definitions
of parts of the retina, and the section of short definitions
of clinical and surgical procedures re. eyes and human visual system.
For further information see also our section of Books
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This Section
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Diseases
and Disorders of the Eyes and Visual System.
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