[Familial corneal degeneration in 3 first-degree relatives: a case study].
Corneal degeneration may differently impair visual acuity. Amniotic membrane grafts produce a favourable effect on the corneal structure and therefore they are used in the treatment of severe corneal degenerations. Amniotic membrane grafts can be used to cover conjunctival defects. THE AIM of this paper is to describe 3 cases of severe corneal degeneration manifesting in pseudopterygium in first-degree relatives who were treated with amniotic membrane grafts.


METHODS
Six eyes in 3 patients (first-degree relatives) were studied. In 3 eyes (2 patients) pathological corneal lesions were removed, the conjunctiva was reconstructed and covered with amniotic membrane grafts. The follow-up period ranged from 9 to 16 months.


RESULTS
The results of the above-mentioned procedure were very promising with respect to visual acuity, corneal structure (assessed by confocal microscopy) and alleviation of symptoms.


CONCLUSIONS
Amniotic membrane grafts constitute a promising method for the treatment of severe familial corneal degeneration manifesting in pseudopterygium.
Gierek-Ciaciura
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S
I Katedra i Klinika Okulistyki Slaskiej AM ul. Ceglana 35 40-952 Katowice.
Filipecka
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I
D000328:Adult; D000368:Aged; D003316:Corneal Diseases / Q000235:genetics* / Q000473:pathology* / Q000601:surgery; D005260:Female; D005500:Follow-Up Studies; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged
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