Corneal specialists are ophthalmologists who specialize in the diagnosis and treatment of conditions that affect the cornea, which is the clear, dome-shaped outer layer of the eye that covers the iris (colored part of the eye) and pupil (black center of the eye). The cornea is responsible for refracting light that enters the eye, which is necessary for clear vision.
Corneal specialists are trained to diagnose and treat a wide range of corneal conditions, including:
- Corneal infections: These can include bacterial, viral, or fungal infections that can cause pain, redness, and vision loss.
- Corneal dystrophies: These are genetic conditions that affect the clarity of the cornea, causing vision loss.
- Corneal injuries: These can include scratches, cuts, or punctures to the cornea that can cause pain, tearing, and vision loss.
- Corneal ulcers: These are open sores on the cornea that can be caused by infection, injury, or underlying medical conditions.
- Keratoconus: This is a condition in which the cornea becomes thin and bulges outwards, causing distorted vision.
- Fuchs’ dystrophy: This is a condition in which the cells in the cornea that help pump out excess fluid become dysfunctional, causing swelling and vision loss.
Treatment for corneal conditions may include eye drops, oral medication, corneal transplant surgery, or other specialized procedures such as corneal collagen cross-linking or corneal topography. Corneal specialists work closely with other healthcare providers such as optometrists, general ophthalmologists, and rheumatologists to provide comprehensive care for their patients. Regular eye exams are important for early detection and treatment of corneal conditions, which can help preserve vision and prevent complications.