What is Fuchs Dystrophy?

What is Fuchs dystrophy? 

Fuchs dystrophy is an age-related progressive corneal disorder that affects both eyes and occurs when endothelial cells gradually die, leading to deposition of drop-like deposits (guttae) and corneal edema. Fuchs dystrophy is significantly more prevalent in women and women account for 75% of corneal transplants performed for this condition. Although Fuchs has a genetic basis, most commonly due to TCF4 gene mutation, it does not cause symptoms or affect vision until middle age or later in life. Treatment ranges from symptomatic relief with hypertonic saline eyedrops and ointments to corneal surgeries.

Clinical stages and symptoms 

Fuchs dystrophy has 4 stages:

Stage 1: Early findings of central non-confluent guttae. Early symptoms of glare.
Stage 2: The guttae become confluent, causing more glare and loss of contrast sensitivity.
Stage 3: There is onset of corneal edema leading to cloudy vision, most commonly in the morning, that clears up during the day.
Stage 4: The edema becomes more severe, causing blurry or hazy vision to persist throughout the day.

Additional symptoms may include:
• Sensitivity to light
• Sandy or gritty feeling in the eyes
• Eye pain due to edema or corneal blisters