Pharmacy Clinical Pearl of the Day: Fuchs’ Dystrophy

Author(s):

Fuchs' dystrophy causes fluid build up in the cornea, resulting in swelling.

Clinical Pearl of the Day: Fuchs’ Dystrophy

In Fuchs' dystrophy, fluid builds up in the clear layer (cornea) on the front of the eye, causing it to swell and thicken.

Insight:

Fuchs' dystrophy can lead to glare, blurred or cloudy vision, and eye discomfort.
Fuchs' dystrophy usually affects both eyes and can cause vision to gradually worsen over years.
Typically, the disease starts when people are in their 30s and 40s, but many patients with Fuchs' dystrophy don't develop symptoms until they reach their 50s or 60s.
Symptoms may include blurred or cloudy vision, fluctuation in the vision, glare, seeing halos, pain or grittiness from tiny blisters.
Causes: In Fuchs' dystrophy, the endothelial cells gradually die or do not work well, resulting in fluid buildup (edema) within the cornea. This causes corneal thickening and blurred vision.
Risk factors include sex, genetics, and age
Treatment may include eye medications, including saline drops, soft contact lenses, and surgery involving transplanting the cornea.

Sources:

Fuchs' dystrophy - Symptoms and causes - Mayo Clinic