Fuchs Dystrophy & Endothelial Disease
Understanding the condition
The innermost layer of the cornea — the endothelium — is made up of specialised cells that pump out fluid to keep the cornea clear. If these cells are damaged or stop working properly, the cornea swells and becomes cloudy. This group of conditions is called endothelial disease.
The most common form is Fuchs endothelial dystrophy, an inherited condition that develops gradually over time. Another important cause is bullous keratopathy (PBK), which can occur if the endothelial cells are deteriorate due to a combination of age, trauma, infections or surgery.
Symptoms
- Blurred or foggy vision, often worse on waking and improving during the day
- Glare and halos around lights
- Difficulty with night driving
- In advanced stages, eye discomfort or pain from small blisters on the corneal surface
Why it matters
When the endothelium fails, fluid builds up in the cornea and light no longer passes through clearly. In early stages, this may cause fluctuating or misty vision. As the disease progresses, vision becomes more consistently blurred and the cornea can scar, leading to permanent clouding if untreated.
How we can help
At Visionare Eye Specialists, we provide a personalised approach that may include:
- Careful monitoring with advanced imaging to track endothelial cell health and corneal thickness
- Early management such as hypertonic (salt) eye drops or using a hairdryer technique to reduce morning swelling
- Surgical options tailored to your needs, including:
- DMEK (Descemet’s Membrane Endothelial Keratoplasty) – the most delicate technique, replacing only the diseased cell layer with rapid visual recovery
- DSAEK (Descemet’s Stripping Automated Endothelial Keratoplasty) – replacing a slightly thicker layer of cornea, still with excellent results
- DWEK/DSO (Descemet’s Stripping Without Endothelial Keratoplasty / Descemet’s Stripping Only) – a newer option for selected patients, removing the central diseased cells and allowing surrounding healthy cells to repopulate naturally
- Comprehensive post-operative care to optimise recovery and protect vision
Our goal is always to restore and maintain clear sight while using the least invasive option possible, tailored to your individual situation.
Your vision and comfort are our priority.
We’re here to guide you with care every step of the way.