Cornea Guttata is a pathology that usually affects both eyes and is characterized by a loss of endothelial cells, the innermost part of the cornea. This is the first of the four stages of Fuchs’ dystrophy.
Fuchs’ dystrophy is more common in women and usually affects people between the ages of 50 and 60.
What does it cause?
As Fuchs’ dystrophy progresses, corneal edema may appear due to an excess of fluid retained in the cornea, which may become swollen and lose its transparency.
When this corneal edema persists, bullae may form which, when ruptured, cause corneal ulcers and pain.
The last stage of the dystrophy is fibrosis, i.e., the appearance of small scars on the cornea that can cause poor vision.
Guttate cornea can cause longer recovery time after cataract surgery.
What are the symptoms?
Guttate cornea may present asymptomatically, but as Fuchs’ dystrophy progresses, the following symptoms are prominent:
- Blurred vision
- Photophobia
- Eye pain
- Halo vision and vision that worsens in humid environments.
How can it be treated?
Guttate cornea has no treatment, it only needs a good follow-up, but when the cornea is destabilized and corneal edema appears, antiedema eye drops or ointments can be used to treat it.
When the cornea is more affected, the most appropriate treatment is corneal transplantation. This can be of two types: corneal endothelial transplant or complete corneal transplant.
Can it be prevented?
In people with a family history it is recommended to perform complete annual ophthalmologic examinations, in order to detect it or control its progression in an adequate way, since Fuchs’ dystrophy has a hereditary pattern.
To learn more about Cornea Guttata contact a specialist.