“As a corneal
specialist Fuchs’ Dystrophy is an eye problem I frequently get called upon to
diagnose, rule out or treat,” commented Leslie Doctor, M.D. “Additionally, I
provide education and counsel to Fuchs’ Dystrophy patients about their
prognosis, risks and progression so they can have realistic expectations,” she
explained.
Information About Fuchs Dystrophy
Fuchs’ Dystrophy
is a type of corneal disease that affects the inner most layer of the
cornea-the endothelium. Fuchs’ Dystrophy is slowly progressive and can be found
in both eyes and is slightly more common in women than men. While it is
possible to observe Fuchs’ Dystrophy in people in their 30’s and 40’s, it
usually does not compromise vision until people are in their 50’s or 60’s. The
endothelial cells are responsible for pumping water out of the cornea and
helping to maintain the corneal transparency. While the reason is poorly
understood, in Fuchs’ Dystrophy, the endothelial cells die, which make the
endothelium less efficient in its pumping activity. This results in the cornea
swelling and distorting vision.
Researchers
reporting in the journal Investigative
Ophthalmology and Visual Science studied the effects of smoking, and other
risk factors, on the development of advanced Fuchs' endothelial corneal
dystrophy (FECD) and on central corneal thickness (CCT). As predicted, being
female increased the odds of developing advanced Fuchs' endothelial corneal
dystrophy (FECD) by 34% and smoking increased the odds by 30%. Besides
reporting that smoking was associated with an increased risk of developing
advanced FECD, diabetes was also associated with increased in corneal
thickness-reflecting greater risk of corneal swelling.
If you or someone you know has
questions or concerns about cataract surgery, air travel and flying please feel
free to call Doctor &
Associates-203-227-4113, visit Doctor
& Associates in Fairfield County or facebook.com/doctorandassociates to
schedule an appointment.
Doctor & Associates is a
leading Fairfield County Connecticut eye care practice with offices at 129 Kings Highway North,
Westport, Connecticut 06880, 195 Danbury Road, Wilton, Connecticut 06897 and
148 East Avenue, Norwalk, Connecticut 06851.
