Lattice corneal dystrophy is an inherited stromal dystrophy characterised by fine, branching, lattice-like lines and deposits within the corneal stroma. These deposits are typically made of amyloid material.
Features and Symptoms
Changes usually begin in early or mid‑adult life and progress gradually. As deposits accumulate, they can cause increasing haze, glare, and reduced vision, and may be associated with recurrent corneal erosions.
- Bilateral involvement is typical, though severity can differ between eyes
- Slit‑lamp examination shows refractile branching lines in the central cornea
- Surface erosions lead to episodes of pain, watering, and light sensitivity
- Corneal thickness and clarity gradually decline as disease advances
Treatment
Mild cases may be managed with lubricants and hypertonic saline to reduce erosions. Advanced disease with significant scarring or thinning may require corneal transplantation, though recurrence in the graft can occur over time.
- Phototherapeutic keratectomy can smooth superficial deposits in selected cases
- Regular review helps time surgery before vision is severely impaired
- Family members may benefit from screening and counselling
- Genetic testing can confirm the specific mutation where available
