Granular corneal dystrophy is a rare, slowly progressing genetic condition that involves deposits forming in the middle layer of the cornea. Symptoms include pain, discomfort, and decreased vision. Treatments range from eye drops to corneal transplant surgery, depending on the condition's severity.
Corneal dystrophy is the result of inherited genetic mutations that lead the accumulation of insoluble material within the corneas of both eyes.
Changes in the cornea usually begin before age 20 with this form of dystrophy. Often, the symptoms may go unnoticed until corneal erosions form. Patients may then notice glare, pain, light sensitivity, and decreased clarity of vision.
Granular corneal dystrophy is often diagnosed during a routine eye exam when small white deposits will be observed on the cornea with a slit lamp. The deposits may look like rings, crumbs, snowflakes, or grains of sugar. Visual acuity is usually reduced.
Type I granular corneal dystrophy is a rare form characterized by multiple small deposits in the center of the cornea that slowly join to create larger deposits. It is typically diagnosed in childhood and causes progressive visual impairment that can become severe. Type II granular corneal dystrophy involves fewer small deposits.
Early treatment can include antibiotic drops or ointment, as well as bandage soft contact lenses with prescribed antibiotic drops. Preventative treatments may include eye drops during the day and ointment at night. If it reoccurs, a corneal puncture or laser treatment may be used to remove deposits. In rare and severe cases, corneal transplant surgery may be recommended.
The Cizik Eye Clinic opened in 2007 and is housed in Memorial Hermann Plaza at 6400 Fannin Street. It includes dozens of exam areas, multiple operating rooms, and laser suites equipped with the most sophisticated equipment available for patient care.
People travel from across the country and the world for treatment at the Cizik Eye Clinic, in part because our affiliation with the McGovern Medical School at UTHealth provides unmatched resources and expertise. Our friendly staff works diligently to make your visit pleasant and efficient, as we maximize patient flow through everything from routine eye exams to the most advanced eye surgeries.
Our physicians are faculty members at McGovern Medical School and are board certified by the American Board of Ophthalmology or are board eligible. At the Cizik Eye Clinic, we understand that the eye is a small part of a whole patient who deserves top-notch, comprehensive care in a cutting-edge facility.
At Robert Cizik Eye Clinic, we offer patients access to highly specialized eye and vision care. To ask us a question, schedule an appointment, or learn more about us, please call (713) 486-9400, or click below to send us a message. In the event of an emergency, call 911 or go to the nearest Emergency Room.