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Corneal Degeneration vs. Corneal Dystrophy – What’s the Difference
eye_doc 2025. 4. 15. 20:33๐ Corneal Degeneration vs. Corneal Dystrophy – What’s the Difference?
When describing corneal changes, ophthalmologists distinguish between:
- Degeneration
- Dystrophy
Each term refers to different causes, patterns, and implications.
๐งฌ ๐ Definitions
AspectDegenerationDystrophy
| Onset | Typically in middle-aged or elderly individuals | Usually before age 10 |
| Cause | Acquired, age-related, environmental | Genetic, congenital |
| Laterality | Asymmetric, sporadic | Bilateral and symmetric |
| Location | Often peripheral; neovascularization common | Usually central; neovascularization rare |
| Family history | Uncommon | Often positive |
| Progression | Progressive | Typically slow or non-progressive |
๐งช Examples of Corneal Degeneration
๐ต Age-related
- Arcus senilis
- Terrien’s marginal degeneration
- Crocodile shagreen
- Furrow degeneration
๐ต Non-age-related
- Band keratopathy
- Spheroidal degeneration
- Corneal keloid
- Amyloid & lipid degeneration
๐งฌ Examples of Corneal Dystrophy
- Granular dystrophy
- Lattice dystrophy
- Fuchs’ endothelial dystrophy
- Fleck corneal dystrophy
โ Summary
- Degeneration = acquired, age-related
- Dystrophy = congenital, inherited
- Knowing the difference helps guide diagnosis, management, and prognosis.