What Is Avellino Corneal Dystrophy?
Avellino Corneal Dystrophy is a hereditary condition in which abnormal protein accumulates in the corneal stroma, causing corneal opacity. It is caused by a mutation in the TGF-beta1 gene and was first identified in the Avellino region of Italy, from which it takes its name.
Cause and Inheritance Pattern
Avellino corneal dystrophy is inherited in an autosomal dominant pattern.
- If one parent carries the gene, there is a 50% chance of passing it to each child
- It occurs regardless of sex
- If both parents carry the gene, the condition manifests more severely
- Children who do not inherit the gene will not develop the disease
Caution: If a carrier of Avellino corneal dystrophy undergoes laser vision correction such as LASIK or LASEK, symptoms can rapidly worsen. Genetic testing is essential before vision correction surgery.
Key Symptoms
- Glare: Light appears to spread in nighttime driving or dark environments
- Photophobia: Hypersensitivity to bright light
- Decreased vision: Vision gradually declines as corneal opacity progresses
- Corneal pain: Pain occurs when the corneal surface is damaged
Severity varies among individuals. Most cases do not lead to blindness, but corneal inflammation or laser surgery can dramatically accelerate progression.
Diagnostic Methods
- Slit-lamp examination: Identification of granular and lattice opacities in the corneal stroma
- TGF-beta1 genetic testing: Blood-based genetic testing for definitive diagnosis
- PENTACAM HR: Precise analysis of corneal shape and thickness
It is often discovered incidentally during pre-operative screening for vision correction surgery.
Treatment and Management
There is currently no definitive cure for Avellino corneal dystrophy. Slowing progression and managing symptoms are the priorities.
- Avoid contact lens wear: Minimize corneal irritation
- Do not rub eyes: Prevent corneal damage
- Use artificial tears: Protect the corneal surface
- Regular eye exams: Monitor progression
- In severe cases: Consider corneal transplantation
When Vision Correction Is Needed: ICL
Laser surgery (LASIK/LASEK) is contraindicated for patients with Avellino corneal dystrophy. Instead, ICL (Implantable Collamer Lens) corrects vision safely without damaging the cornea.
- No risk of Avellino worsening as the cornea is not reshaped
- Regular Avellino follow-up remains possible after surgery
- The lens can be removed or replaced if needed
At Cheonan Kim Eye Clinic, we perform Avellino genetic testing before vision correction. If a patient is identified as a carrier, we recommend ICL instead of laser surgery. Through precise corneal analysis with PENTACAM HR, we guide patients toward safe vision correction.