About Granular corneal dystrophy type II

What is Granular corneal dystrophy type II?

Granular corneal dystrophy type II (GCD2) is a rare, inherited eye disorder that affects the cornea, the clear outer layer of the eye. It is characterized by the presence of small, white, granular deposits in the cornea that can cause vision problems. These deposits can cause the cornea to become cloudy, leading to decreased vision. GCD2 is caused by a mutation in the TGFBI gene, which is responsible for producing a protein called keratoepithelin. Treatment for GCD2 is typically limited to managing the symptoms, such as using artificial tears to reduce dryness and irritation.

What are the symptoms of Granular corneal dystrophy type II?

The symptoms of Granular Corneal Dystrophy Type II (GCDII) include:

- Blurred vision

- Sensitivity to light

- Halos around lights

- Glare

- Poor night vision

- Decreased visual acuity

- Pain or discomfort in the eyes

- A feeling of having something in the eyes

- White or gray spots on the cornea

What are the causes of Granular corneal dystrophy type II?

Granular corneal dystrophy type II is caused by a mutation in the TGFBI gene. This gene provides instructions for making a protein called keratoepithelin, which is found in the cornea. Mutations in this gene can cause the protein to be abnormally processed, leading to the accumulation of abnormal deposits in the cornea.

What are the treatments for Granular corneal dystrophy type II?

The main treatment for Granular Corneal Dystrophy Type II is corneal transplantation. This is a surgical procedure in which the damaged cornea is replaced with a healthy donor cornea. Other treatments include phototherapeutic keratectomy (PTK) and laser-assisted subepithelial keratectomy (LASEK). PTK is a procedure in which the outer layer of the cornea is removed and replaced with a laser. LASEK is a procedure in which the outer layer of the cornea is reshaped with a laser. Both of these treatments can help improve vision and reduce symptoms.

What are the risk factors for Granular corneal dystrophy type II?

1. Genetic predisposition: Granular corneal dystrophy type II is an inherited disorder caused by mutations in the TGFBI gene.

2. Age: Granular corneal dystrophy type II typically begins in childhood or adolescence and progresses with age.

3. Gender: Granular corneal dystrophy type II is more common in males than females.

4. Family history: Individuals with a family history of Granular corneal dystrophy type II are at an increased risk of developing the condition.

Is there a cure/medications for Granular corneal dystrophy type II?

At this time, there is no known cure for granular corneal dystrophy type II. However, there are medications that can be used to help manage the symptoms. These include topical lubricants, corticosteroids, and anti-inflammatory medications. In some cases, surgery may be recommended to improve vision.