fuchs endothelial dystrophy
Pronunciation: FOOKS en-doh-THEE-lee-al DIS-tro-fee
Progressive corneal disease characterized by endothelial cell loss and formation of excrescences called guttae.
Full Definition
Fuchs endothelial dystrophy is a progressive, bilateral corneal disorder characterized by accelerated loss of corneal endothelial cells and the formation of focal excrescences called guttae on Descemet's membrane. The condition typically affects middle-aged to elderly individuals, with women more commonly affected than men. As endothelial cells decrease in number and function, the cornea loses its ability to maintain proper hydration, leading to corneal edema, reduced visual acuity, and eventual bullous keratopathy. Early stages may be asymptomatic or cause mild visual disturbance, while advanced cases require corneal transplantation. The diagnosis is made through specular microscopy showing reduced endothelial cell density and slit-lamp examination revealing characteristic guttae. Treatment ranges from hypertonic saline drops for mild edema to endothelial keratoplasty for advanced cases.
Usage
Usage note: Named after Ernst Fuchs; capitalize as proper noun; may be written with or without apostrophe.
In Context
- "The patient's Fuchs endothelial dystrophy progressed to require DSEK transplantation." — Surgical indication documentation
- "Early Fuchs endothelial dystrophy was managed conservatively with hypertonic saline." — Conservative treatment protocol