Dr. Chao Explains What Fuchs’ Dystrophy Is & Treatment Options

Fuchs’ dystrophy is one of the most common conditions that I see as a cornea specialist. Fuchs’ dystrophy is a genetic condition that affects the cornea, which is like the clear window in front of the eye. The goal of the cornea is to remain crystal clear so that light can enter the eye so that you can see. In patients who have Fuchs’ dystrophy, that clarity is gradually lost over time. The cornea has multiple layers like a cake. The innermost layer is called the endothelium and that layer is responsible for pumping out fluid to keep the cornea clear. In Fuchs dystrophy, the endothelium is unhealthy.

Early symptoms of Fuchs dystrophy may include glare, haloes, and a general blurriness in the vision in the morning that improves throughout the rest of the day, and then becomes blurry again the next morning.

As the disease progresses, the blurriness becomes more constant. Initial treatment includes eyedrops to help keep the cornea clear, but some patients may require a corneal transplant to regain their sight.

The Medical Eye Center has offices in Bedford, Manchester, Nashua and Peterborough, New Hampshire.

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