About Macular corneal dystrophy

What is Macular corneal dystrophy?

Macular corneal dystrophy (MCD) 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, opaque spots in the central area of the cornea, known as the macula. These spots can cause blurred vision, glare, and difficulty with night vision. MCD is caused by a genetic mutation and is usually inherited in an autosomal dominant pattern, meaning that only one parent needs to have the mutation for a child to be affected. Treatment for MCD typically involves the use of special contact lenses or corneal transplantation.

What are the symptoms of Macular corneal dystrophy?

The most common symptoms of macular corneal dystrophy include:

-Decreased vision
-Blurred vision
-Distorted vision
-Sensitivity to light
-Halos around lights
-Glare
-Double vision
-Reduced night vision
-Decreased contrast sensitivity
-Central vision loss
-Distorted central vision
-Decreased color vision
-Eye Pain or discomfort

What are the causes of Macular corneal dystrophy?

Macular corneal dystrophy is an inherited disorder caused by mutations in the TGFBI gene. This gene provides instructions for making a protein called keratoepithelin, which is found in the cornea (the clear outer layer of the eye). Mutations in this gene can cause the cornea to become abnormally thick and cloudy, leading to vision problems.

What are the treatments for Macular corneal dystrophy?

1. Corneal transplantation: This is the most common treatment for macular corneal dystrophy. During this procedure, the damaged cornea is replaced with a healthy donor cornea.

2. Intacs: Intacs are small, curved plastic rings that are surgically inserted into the cornea to flatten it and improve vision.

3. Corneal cross-linking: This procedure strengthens the cornea by using ultraviolet light and riboflavin (vitamin B2) to create new bonds between the collagen fibers in the cornea.

4. Phototherapeutic keratectomy (PTK): This procedure uses a laser to remove the damaged tissue from the cornea.

5. Corneal collagen cross-linking: This procedure uses riboflavin and ultraviolet light to

What are the risk factors for Macular corneal dystrophy?

1. Genetic predisposition: Macular corneal dystrophy is an inherited disorder, so having a family history of the condition increases the risk of developing it.

2. Age: Macular corneal dystrophy is more common in older individuals.

3. Gender: Macular corneal dystrophy is more common in males than females.

4. Ethnicity: Macular corneal dystrophy is more common in individuals of European descent.

Is there a cure/medications for Macular corneal dystrophy?

There is no cure for macular corneal dystrophy, but there are treatments available to help manage the condition. These treatments include eye drops, contact lenses, and corneal transplantation. In some cases, medications such as corticosteroids may be prescribed to reduce inflammation.