Fuchs’ Endothelial Dystrophy

Fuchs’ endothelial dystrophy is an inherited eye disorder, as people with a family history are at a higher risk of developing the disease, although the genetic nature of the disease is complicated. Family members can be affected to varying degrees or not at all. This condition is slightly more common in women than in men. Also, smokers and diabetic patients may be more likely to have this disease.

Patients with Fuchs’ endothelial dystrophy can still have successful cataract surgery, however a careful pre-operative assessment of their cornea as well as suitable intraocular lens options needs to be undertaken prior to any eye surgery. Some patients with FED can have a slower visual recovery than usual after routine cataract surgery, and modified cataract surgery technique is required to reduce the stress on the cornea that already has reduced endothelial cell function.

Earlier (mild) stages of Fuchs’ endothelial dystrophy can be monitored regularly and with disease progression, eye drop therapy such as hypertonic saline can be helpful. With more symptomatic disease affected by cloudy corneal swelling, the most effective treatment is corneal transplantation surgery. There are various corneal surgery options, but in recent years, the preferred surgery involves only selective replacement of the bottom layer(s) of the cornea with endothelial keratoplasty (DSAEK or DMEK).

Learn more about corneal transplantation at Eastwood Eye Surgery