Estrogen-dependent Cancers in Female Patients With Fuchs Endothelial Corneal Dystrophy

The purpose of our study is to elucidate the odds of estrogen-dependent cancers in patients with Fuchs endothelial corneal dystrophy (FECD).

This was a retrospective chart review. Charts from 400 patients over the age of 40 were reviewed. Using data from the records of Bascom Palmer Eye Institute, 297 patients with FECD who had a routine gynecological screening were identified. A 2:1 match control was performed. A total of 670 controls without FECD, who had undergone ophthalmic examination and had routine gynecological screening, were identified. Data were analyzed in SPSS using an unadjusted odds ratio and a multivariable logistic regression model adjusting for age, race, and ethnicity.

Among 297 patients with FECD (mean age 72 years), 35 (12%) were diagnosed with estrogen-dependent cancers, compared with 119 (18%) of 670 controls. Patients with FECD had significantly lower odds of estrogen-dependent cancer (OR 0.62, 95% CI, 0.41-0.93, P < 0.05). After adjusting for age, race, and ethnicity, the odds remained significantly lower (OR 0.55, 95% CI, 0.36-0.84). The mean age of cancer diagnosis was 64 ± 12 years in the FECD group and 64 ± 11 years in the control group. Subgroup analysis revealed significantly lower odds in White patients with FECD (OR 0.503, 95% CI, 0.319-0.792) and Non-Hispanic patients with FECD (OR 0.570, 95% CI, 0.357-0.912).

Patients with FECD exhibited significantly lower odds of estrogen-dependent cancers, suggesting a potential protective association. Further research is needed to elucidate the underlying mechanisms.