Boston Doctor for Fuchs’ Dystrophy

Fuchs’ Dystrophy is a slowly progressive disease of the cornea that is typically bilateral and is slightly more common in women than men. While it is possible to observe Fuchs’ Dystrophy in people in their 30’s and 40’s, it usually does not compromise vision until people are in their 50’s or 60’s. While a precise path of genetic transmission is unclear, a familial predisposition seems to exist among those who are first degree relatives. Early in the course of Fuch's Dystrophy patients typically awaken with blurry vision that gets progressively clearer as the day passes. This phenomenon occurs because the cornea normally swells during sleep. A healthy endothelial pump is necessary in order to restore the cornea to a normal thickness. In Fuchs’ Dystrophy, the endothelium removes fluid from the cornea less efficiently. As the Fuchs’ Dystrophy disease worsens, the vision does not clear. Usually we will attempt to help reduce the corneal swelling each day by prescribing hypertonic eye drops and ointments. However, when these measures fail to provide comfort and clear vision, it may be necessary to have a corneal transplant.

If you or someone you know would like to learn more about Fuchs’ Corneal Dystrophy please schedule an appointment with Massachusetts Corneal Specialist JoAnn C. Chang, M.D. at D’Ambrosio Eye Care by calling us at 800-325-3937. You may also request an appointment at facebook.com/dambrosioeyecare.