Fuchs' Corneal Dystrophy
Fuchs' dystrophy is an inherited condition that affects the delicate inner layer (endothelium) of the cornea. The endothelium functions as a pump mechanism, constantly removing fluids from the cornea to maintain its clarity. Patients gradually lose these endothelial cells as the dystrophy progresses. Once lost, the endothelial cells do not grow back, but instead spread out to the fill empty spaces. The pump system becomes less efficient, causing corneal clouding, swelling and eventually, reduced vision.

In the early stages, Fuchs' patients notice glare and light sensitivity. As the dystrophy progresses, the vision may seem blurred in the morning and sharper later in the day. This happens because the internal layers of the cornea tend to retain more moisture during sleep that evaporates when the eyes are open. As the dystrophy worsens, the vision becomes continuously blurred.

Fuchs' affects both eyes and is slightly more common among women then men. It generally begins at 30-40 years of age and gradually progresses. If the vision becomes significantly impaired, a corneal transplant may be indicated. Sometimes corneal transplant (also known as penetrating keratoplasty or PKP) is performed along with cataract and intraocular lens implant surgery.

SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS
•Hazy vision that is often most pronounced in the morning
•Fluctuating vision
•Glare when looking at lights
•Light sensitivity
•Sandy, gritty sensation
DETECTION AND DIAGNOSIS
Fuchs' is detected by examining the cornea with a slit lamp microscope that magnifies the endothelial cells thousands of times. The health of the endothelium is evaluated and monitored with pachymetry and specular microscopy

TREATMENT
Fuchs' cannot be cured; however, with certain medications, blurred vision resulting from the corneal swelling can be controlled. Salt solutions such as sodium chloride drops or ointment are often prescribed to draw fluid from the cornea and reduce swelling. Another simple technique that reduces moisture in the cornea is to hold a hair dryer at arm’s length, blowing air into the face with the eyes closed. This technique draws moisture from the cornea, temporarily decreases swelling, and improves the vision.

Corneal transplant is indicated when the vision deteriorates to the point that it impairs the patient’s ability to function normally.
1594 Flatbush Avenue
Brooklyn, NY 11210
(718) 434-0539
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Brooklyn, NY 11226
(718) 469-3311
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Monday
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Tuesday
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Wednesday
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Thursday
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Friday
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Saturday
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Sunday
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11122 Flatlands Avenue
Brooklyn, NY 11207
(718) 257-9393
HOURS OF OPERATION    
Monday
10:00am - 6:00pm
Tuesday
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Wednesday
10:00am - 6:00pm
Thursday
10:00am - 6:00pm
Friday
10:00am - 6:00pm
Saturday
10:00am - 5:00pm
Sunday
Closed
Flatbush Avenue 1594 Flatbush Ave Brooklyn, NY 11210 Phone: (718) 434-0539 Fax: (718) 434-0677
Church Avenue 2011 Church Avenue Brooklyn, NY 11226 Phone: (718) 469-3311 Fax: (718) 928-7262
Flatlands Ave 11122 Flatlands Ave Brooklyn, NY 11207 Phone: (718) 257-9393

Flatbush Optical has three locations in Brooklyn, Serving the neighborhoods of East Flatbush, Prospect Park South, Mapleton, Brownsville, Crown Heights, Flatlands, Mill Basin, Bergen Beach, and Garrison Beach.

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