What is the Cornea?

The cornea is the transparent tissue at the front of the eye.  It acts as the eye’s outermost lens and helps to shield the rest of the eye from germs, dust, and other harmful matter. The cornea contributes between 65-75 percent of the eye’s total focusing power and also serves as a filter, screening out some of the most damaging ultraviolet (UV) wavelengths in sunlight. The transparency and shape of the cornea is vital for good vision and any alteration in this can result in poor vision or blindness. Although the cornea is clear and seems to lack substance, it is actually a highly organized group of cells and proteins. To see well, all layers of the cornea must be free of any cloudy or opaque areas.

Fuchs’ Dystrophy

Fuchs’ dystrophy is a disorder that effects healthy cells in the cornea, resulting in a buildup of fluid and swelling that typically progresses to effect both eyes. Symptoms include glare, blurred or cloudy vision, and eye discomfort. Fuchs’ dystrophy typically effects patients over 50, is slightly more common in women than men, and can be inherited from family members.

Keratoconus

Keratoconus is a progressive eye disease that causes the cornea to gradually become steeper and, eventually, cone-shaped. It is the most common cornea ectasia disorder. As the disease progresses, the quality of the patient’s vision deteriorates. Keratoconus, which affects approximately 1 in 2,000 people, can make normal activities such as driving and reading very difficult to perform, even with glasses or contacts.

Keratoconus normally affects both eyes although it typically progresses at different rates. In most patients, keratoconus begins during the teenage years and slowly worsens before stabilizing when the patient reaches their 30’s or 40’s. No one knows the cause of keratoconus.  However, there is evidence that the disease has genetic origins, which may be made worse by environmental factors.

Other Diseases and Injuries Affecting the Cornea

The doctors at John-Kenyon can treat a variety of diseases and eye injuries that may affect the cornea, including:

• Scarring from infections, such as eye herpes or fungal keratitis
• Cornea ectasia disorders, including keratoconus
• Hereditary factors or corneal failure from previous surgeries
• Thinning of the cornea and irregular shape
• Chemical burns on the cornea or damage from an eye injury
• Excessive swelling (edema) of the cornea

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Patient Forms

Thank you for choosing to see the difference at John-Kenyon! To help improve your patient experience, our patient forms are available for you to print, review, and fill out before your appointment. We look forward to seeing you!