What is posterior polymorphous dystrophy?

Posterior polymorphous corneal dystrophy (PPMD, PPCD) is a rare, bilateral, autosomal dominant inherited corneal dystrophy. The corneal abnormality in PPMD occurs at the level of Descemet’s membrane and endothelium, and rarely will result in corneal edema or elevated intraocular pressure.

How serious is corneal dystrophy?

Corneal dystrophies are eye diseases that involve changes in the cornea (the clear front layer of your eye). These diseases usually run in families. Most corneal dystrophies are progressive — they get worse over time. Some cause vision loss or pain, but some have no symptoms.

How long does it take Fuchs dystrophy to progress?

It can take up to six months until full improvement in your vision is seen.

What is posterior corneal astigmatism?

The posterior corneal radius is 6.5 mm on average that is lower than the anterior corneal radius which is 7.8 mm. 8,9. Astigmatism occurs when our visual system does not have a good perception of a point from a point source due to the fact that there are different powers in the different meridians of the cornea.

What is polymorphous corneal dystrophy?

Introduction. Posterior Polymorphous Corneal Dystrophy (PPMD, PPCD), also known as Schlichting dystrophy, is an autosomal dominant disorder of the corneal endothelium and Descemet’s membrane, producing a wide variability in clinical presentation.

What is a very common way to treat a deteriorating cornea?

If you have advanced corneal disease, you may need a different treatment. Laser treatment. To treat some corneal dystrophies and other conditions, doctors can use a type of laser treatment called phototherapeutic keratectomy (PTK) to reshape the cornea, remove scar tissue, and make vision clearer.

What does dystrophy mean in medical terms?

Definition of dystrophy 1 : a condition produced by faulty nutrition. 2 : any myogenic atrophy especially : muscular dystrophy.

Is corneal dystrophy curable?

Corneal dystrophy is an inherited condition, which means prevention is a mystery. The good news is that this condition is treatable.

Is corneal dystrophy a disability?

In Fuchs endothelial corneal dystrophy (FECD), progressive corneal endothelial dysfunction and subsequent chronic edematous changes result in characteristic visual disability.

Does Fuchs always progress?

Fuchs’ dystrophy does not always progress to the point that surgical treatment is required. Early on, your doctor may prescribe hypertonic saline to dehydrate your cornea and clear your vision. A hairdryer held at arms length may also be used to dry out excess moisture.