Living with Posterior polymorphous corneal dystrophy
A rare, mild eye condition affecting the back layers of the cornea that usually does not affect vision.
Understanding Posterior polymorphous corneal dystrophy
Doctors see small groups of bubble-like spots with a gray haze at the back of the cornea. It generally does not affect vision. It can appear in childhood.
Signs & symptoms
GARD lists these among the most common signs:
- Small bubble-like spots at the back of the cornea
- Gray haze at the back of the cornea
- Fewer cells lining the back of the cornea
- Usually no change in vision
Not everyone has every symptom. GARD's list comes from the Human Phenotype Ontology.
Diagnosis
- 1Talk with your doctor
Share the symptoms you've noticed, when they started and your family health history. Notes and photos can help.
- 2See a specialist
Specialists who may be involved include eye disease specialists and genetic specialists.
- 3Ask which tests can help
Your care team will decide which exams and tests can confirm the diagnosis.
Care & treatment
- Care team
- Eye disease specialists (ophthalmologists); Genetic specialists (geneticists)
- Expert care
- Ask about multidisciplinary care centers for rare conditions
- Treatment
- GARD doesn't list specific treatments for this condition. Your care team will tailor care to your symptoms.
- Research
- Clinical trials and observational studies may be options. See the research section below.
General information, not medical advice. Your care team makes the decisions.
Everyday life
Living with a rare condition is easier with support.
- Connect with Corneal Dystrophy Foundation
- Keep notes on symptoms, changes and questions for appointments
- Ask about patient registries that help research
- Look into financial aid and travel resources for care visits
Quick facts
GARD says changes in genes cause this condition but doesn't name a gene. It is autosomal dominant, meaning one changed copy of the gene is enough.
Also known as: corneal dystrophy, hereditary polymorphous posterior; corneal dystrophy, posterior polymorphous; hereditary polymorphus posterior corneal dystrophy; polymorphous corneal dystrophy; polymorphous posterior corneal dystrophy; posterior polymorphous dystrophy
Patient organizations
- Corneal Dystrophy FoundationPosterior polymorphous corneal dystrophy · United States
You are more than your diagnosis
Perspectives from people navigating life with Posterior polymorphous corneal dystrophy.
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