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The posterior corneal surface in posterior polymorphous dystrophy: a specular microscopical study.
H C Laganowski1, E S Sherrard, M G Muir
1Moorfields Eye Hospital, London, England.
Cornea
|May 1, 1991
Summary
Specular microscopy reveals posterior polymorphous dystrophy (PPD) involves distinct corneal vesicles and bands. These findings differentiate PPD from other posterior corneal conditions, aiding diagnosis.
Area of Science:
- Ophthalmology
- Corneal Diseases
- Microscopy
Background:
- Posterior polymorphous dystrophy (PPD) is a genetic corneal condition.
- Diagnosis often relies on characteristic corneal opacities.
- Distinguishing PPD from other posterior corneal disorders can be challenging.
Purpose of the Study:
- To characterize the specular microscopy findings in posterior polymorphous dystrophy (PPD).
- To differentiate PPD from other posterior corneal abnormalities using endothelial specular photomicroscopy (ESP).
- To investigate potential etiological factors related to corneal rigidity in PPD.
Main Methods:
- Study included 48 cases diagnosed with posterior polymorphous dystrophy (PPD).
- Specular microscopy was used to examine Descemet's membrane and corneal endothelium.
- Endothelial specular photomicroscopy (ESP) was employed for detailed imaging.
Main Results:
- Vesicles were observed in 42% of PPD cases, bands in 48%, and diffuse abnormalities in 10%.
- ESP provided distinctive features of PPD vesicles (pits) and bands (trenches) in Descemet's membrane.
- Enlarged endothelial cells were common; other previously reported endothelial abnormalities were absent.
- Corneas in affected children showed increased rigidity.
Conclusions:
- Specular microscopy, particularly ESP, is valuable for diagnosing PPD and distinguishing it from similar conditions.
- PPD primarily affects Descemet's membrane, presenting as pits and trenches.
- Corneal rigidity in pediatric PPD may offer insights into disease etiology.