Corneal dystrophies

In epithelial dystrophies, the most superficial layer of the cornea, called epithelium, becomes irregular, which may cause vision problems, discomfort or pain.

In epithelial-stromal dystrophies, the abnormalities affect both the superficial layer of the cornea (the epithelium) and the underlying layer (the stroma). This can lead to blurred vision, discomfort and sometimes pain, due to opacities or irregularities in the cornea.

In stromal dystrophies, deposits or opacities form in the middle layer of the cornea. This can make the cornea less transparent, causing blurred or cloudy vision sometimes associated with discomfort.

In endothelial dystrophies, it is the deepest layer of the cornea, called endothelium, which is affected. Endothelial cells help keep the cornea clear by removing excess fluid. When they no longer function properly, the cornea swells (edema), leading to blurred vision, especially in the morning. Epithelial bullae can then form on the surface of the cornea and cause pain when they rupture. Prolonged corneal edema can lead to permanent corneal scarring.