Corneal Leukoma
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Overview
Corneal leukoma, also known as corneal opacity, is a medical condition characterized by the presence of an opaque or cloudy area on the cornea, the transparent front part of the eye. This condition can cause visual impairment or loss of vision, depending on the size and location of the leukoma.
Causes
The causes of corneal leukoma can be diverse and may include:
- Infections: Bacterial, viral, or fungal infections, such as corneal ulcers or herpes simplex virus keratitis, can lead to corneal leukoma.
- Injuries: Trauma to the cornea, such as penetrating or chemical injuries, can cause scarring and corneal opacification.
- Inflammation: Conditions like uveitis, ocular cicatricial pemphigoid, or Stevens-Johnson syndrome can result in corneal inflammation and subsequent leukoma formation.
- Congenital Disorders: Genetic disorders like congenital glaucoma, congenital hereditary endothelial dystrophy, or congenital rubella syndrome may lead to corneal leukoma from birth.
- Degenerative Conditions: Corneal dystrophies, such as Fuchs endothelial dystrophy or lattice corneal dystrophy, can cause progressive corneal opacification over time.
Symptoms
The main symptom of corneal leukoma is a visible white or grayish area on the cornea. Additional signs and symptoms may include:
- Blurred or decreased vision
- Sensitivity to light (photophobia)
- Eye discomfort or pain
- Redness and irritation
- Excessive tearing
- Abnormal corneal shape or surface irregularities
Treatment
The treatment of corneal leukoma depends on its cause, size, and impact on visual function.
The options may include:
- Medications: Antibiotic, antiviral, or antifungal eye drops or ointments are prescribed to manage infectious causes.
- Corneal Transplantation: In cases where the leukoma severely affects vision and cannot be managed conservatively, a corneal transplant may be recommended to replace the damaged cornea with a healthy donor cornea.
- Contact Lenses or Glasses: Corrective lenses can help improve vision by compensating for the corneal irregularities caused by the leukoma.
- Prosthetic Devices: Artificial corneas or keratoprostheses may be considered for individuals who are not suitable candidates for traditional corneal transplantation.
