Endothelial Corneal Dystrophy

Authors

  • Danielle Cadieux, MD, MHPE, FRCSC Dalhousie University, Halifax, NS
  • Rami Darwich, MDCM, MSc, PhD Dalhousie University, Halifax, NS

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.58931/cect.2024.3242

Abstract

Fuchs endothelial corneal dystrophy (FECD) was first described by Ernst Fuchs in 1910. It is a bilateral corneal endothelial dystrophy characterized by progressive loss of corneal endothelial cells and formation of excrescences at the level of Descemet’s membrane called guttae. The diseased endothelium leads to corneal edema and loss of corneal clarity. FECD typically manifests in the fifth and sixth decade of life coinciding with the development of cataracts. Careful preoperative evaluation and surgical technique allows for selection of patients who can safely undergo cataract surgery alone. Some patients, however, would benefit from both cataract surgery and endothelial transplantation (EK). This can be done as a staged surgery (cataract surgery then EK or vice versa) or in combination as a single procedure. This review evaluates the management strategies for individuals with cataract and FECD to help guide surgical decision-making and planning. 

Author Biographies

Danielle Cadieux, MD, MHPE, FRCSC, Dalhousie University, Halifax, NS

Dr. Dani Cadieux is an Associate Professor at Dalhousie University currently practicing as a Cornea and External Eye Disease specialist in Halifax, Nova Scotia. She completed her medical degree at Western University in London, Ontario, followed by an ophthalmology residency in Halifax. During residency, she completed a concurrent Master’s in Health Profession Education through the University of Maastricht, The Netherlands. She then completed fellowship training in Cornea and External Eye Disease in Melbourne, Australia. In addition to her clinical practice, Dr. Cadieux is the Program Director for the ophthalmology residency training program at Dalhousie University. 

Rami Darwich, MDCM, MSc, PhD, Dalhousie University, Halifax, NS

Dr. Darwich completed his MDCM degree at McGill University and is currently an ophthalmology resident at Dalhousie University. He will be completing a glaucoma fellowship at Mayo Clinic in Rochester, Minnesota. Dr. Darwich is actively engaged in research and has published in various peer‑reviewed journals and presented at numerous international conferences.

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Published

2024-06-18

How to Cite

1.
Cadieux D, Darwich R. Endothelial Corneal Dystrophy. Can Eye Care Today [Internet]. 2024 Jun. 18 [cited 2024 Sep. 8];3(2):10–15. Available from: https://canadianeyecaretoday.com/article/view/3-2-cadieux_et_al

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Volume 3, Issue 2, Summer 2024

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