Limbal Stem Cell Transplantation for Gelatinous Drop-like Corneal Dystrophy

To report the outcomes of allograft limbal stem cell transplantation for recurrent gelatinous drop-like corneal dystrophy (GDLD).

In this non-comparative interventional case series, 4 eyes of 3 consecutive patients with recurrent GDLD underwent allograft limbal stem cell transplantation. Two eyes underwent concomitant penetrating keratoplasty while the other two underwent simultaneous superficial keratectomy. Main outcome measures were best spectacle corrected visual acuity, intraocular pressure and corneal clarity.

Patient age ranged from 28 to 63 years. Mean follow-up after surgery was 23±10 (median, 22; range, 12-36) months. Mean visual acuity improved from 2.70±0.61 logMAR preoperatively to 1.05±0.06 logMAR at final postoperative visit (P=0.066). Intraocular pressure was normal in all eyes at baseline and remained within normal limits at all postoperative visits. All corneas remained smooth and clear during the follow-up period with no episode of rejection or recurrence. All patients maintained ambulatory vision until final follow-up.

The present study provides further evidence that limbal stem cell transplantation may be an effective therapeutic alternative in patients with GDLD.