Corneal blindness accounts for 0.52% of total blindness in the Indian subcontinent. The cornea can be the site of various disorders ranging from whitening of the cornea due to degenerations and dystrophies to abnormalities of corneal shape including Keratoconus. Treatment strategies for these disorders include Corneal Transplant surgery, Auto-grafting for Pterygium and Corneal Collagen Cross-linking with Riboflavin (C3R) for Keratoconus .

At Mishri Devi Eye Hospital we have a dedicated team of cornea specialists committed to provide you with the best possible care to protect your vision.

Corneal dystrophy - a group of genetic disorders characterized by the accumulation of abnormal material in the cornea, affecting its clarity and function.

Corneal infections – bacterial, viral, and fungal infections that can lead to inflammation and damage to the cornea.

Fuchs’ dystrophy – a progressive disease that affects the corneal endothelium (inner layer), leading to fluid buildup and cloudy vision.

Symptoms of corneal diseases

Corneal diseases display various symptoms affecting the transparent front part of the eye. Common signs include:

• Redness and eye pain
• Foreign body sensation
• Blurred or distorted vision
• Sensitivity to light
• Excessive tearing
• Watery or fluid discharge
• Gradual vision loss
• Inflammation and discomfort
• Decreased visual acuity (the ability to distinguish shapes and the details of objects at a given distance).

Immediate medical attention is important to prevent complications and preserve vision, as some conditions may progress rapidly.

Causes of corneal diseases

• Infections like bacterial, viral, or fungal keratitis.
• Genetic factors contribute to corneal dystrophies, leading to gradual degeneration.
• Trauma, such as scratches or injuries, may damage the cornea.
• Age-related changes, such as Fuchs' endothelial dystrophy, impact corneal health.
• Dry eye syndrome and autoimmune disorders can result in corneal inflammation.
• Contact lens misuse or extended wear may increase infection risk.
• Pre-existing conditions, such as diabetes, and surgical complications may also lead to corneal diseases, highlighting the multifactorial nature of these ocular disorders.
• Environmental factors, like prolonged UV exposure, can contribute to disorders.

Treatments for Corneal Diseases

• Topical Antibiotics: Bacterial keratitis is often treated with prescription eye drops or ointments containing antibiotics, targeting the infection directly.
• Anti-inflammatory Medications: Corticosteroid eye drops can alleviate inflammation associated with certain corneal conditions, promoting healing and reducing discomfort.
• Lubricating Eye Drops: Managing dry eye symptoms involves regular artificial tears to maintain corneal moisture and relieve irritation.
• Corneal Collagen Cross-Linking (C3R): Used for keratoconus, this procedure strengthens the cornea using ultraviolet light and riboflavin drops, slowing down or halting the progressive thinning of the corneal tissue.
• Corneal Transplantation: Severe corneal damage may necessitate a transplant, replacing the damaged tissue with a healthy donor cornea to restore vision.
• Phototherapeutic Keratectomy (PTK): This laser surgery removes damaged corneal tissue, addressing conditions like corneal dystrophies or scars to improve vision.