title: Corneal dystrophies.
abstract: Corneal dystrophies are inherited (usually autosomal dominant) disorders involving virtually every layer of the cornea. They result in opacities of various sizes and shapes that primarily affect the central cornea relatively early in life. Diagnosis is most often based on clinical appearance and careful biomicroscopic examination to assess the corneal layer(s) that are affected. Because most dystrophies are slowly progressive, visual acuity is often minimally affected for much of an individual's lifetime. Dystrophies are not associated with any prior corneal inflammations or systemic disease. This paper is a discussion of the most commonly encountered dystrophies affecting the epithelium, Bowman's membrane, stroma, and endothelium. The optometric management of many of these dystrophies may, at times, present a challenge to the clinician. Treatment may range anywhere from a simple therapeutic contact lens to referral for penetrating keratoplasty.
authors.forename: S J
authors.initials: SJ
authors.lastname: Bass
mesh_terms: D003261:Contact Lenses; D003317:Corneal Dystrophies, Hereditary / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000628:therapy*; D005642:Fuchs' Endothelial Dystrophy / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000628:therapy; D006801:Humans; D015948:Keratoplasty, Penetrating; D009907:Optometry; D012017:Referral and Consultation