Intermediate
Technical
In the Industry Vocabulary Test
corneal edema
Swelling of the cornea due to excess fluid accumulation, causing decreased transparency.
Full Definition
Corneal edema is the accumulation of excess fluid within the corneal layers, most commonly affecting the stroma and epithelium. This condition results from dysfunction of the corneal endothelium, which normally maintains corneal dehydration through active fluid pumping. Causes include endothelial cell loss from surgery, trauma, or disease, leading to decreased corneal transparency and vision impairment. Severe cases may require corneal transplantation.
Usage
Usage note: Specify which corneal layer is affected (epithelial, stromal, or endothelial).
In Context
- "Stromal corneal edema developed following complicated cataract surgery." — Post-operative complication
- "The patient presented with epithelial corneal edema and reduced visual acuity." — Emergency consultation
Also known as
corneal swelling
Contrasted with
corneal dehydration
Don't confuse with
corneal haze
corneal scarring