Corneal Macular Dystrophies refer to a group of hereditary eye disorders characterized by the development of abnormal deposits called macules in the cornea. The cornea is the clear, dome-shaped outermost layer of the eye responsible for focusing incoming light onto the retina.
These macules, also known as opacities, typically appear as small, grayish or whitish spots on the cornea, giving it a cloudy or hazy appearance. They usually accumulate in the central part of the cornea, called the macula, which is responsible for providing sharp central vision. As a result, Corneal Macular Dystrophies often lead to a gradual decline in visual acuity and may cause significant impairment of central vision over time.
The various types of Corneal Macular Dystrophies are distinguished based on the specific genetic mutations responsible for their occurrence, as well as the pattern of macule deposition within the cornea. Some common subtypes include Granular Dystrophy, Lattice Dystrophy, and Macular Dystrophy.
Corneal Macular Dystrophies are typically inherited in an autosomal dominant manner, meaning that an affected individual has a 50% chance of passing the condition on to each of their offspring. The onset and severity of symptoms can vary significantly among affected individuals, even within the same family.
Treatment options for Corneal Macular Dystrophies focus on managing the symptoms and preventing complications that may arise, such as corneal scarring or recurrent corneal erosions. These may include the use of lubricating eye drops, bandage contact lenses, or, in severe cases, corneal transplantation. Regular monitoring by an eye care professional is essential to assess disease progression and provide appropriate management
