Corneal Dystrophy: Impact of Blue Light and Patient Education

Q: Corneal Dystrophy: Impact of Blue Light and Patient Education

Hello, Yuanzi： 1. Will exposure to blue light worsen this condition? Answer： It should not, as this blue light is likely just LED blue visible light. 2. What factors might increase or decrease the appearance of spots? Answer： If there is corneal abrasion, ke

The relationship between corneal dystrophy and blue light, as well as educational issues?

Hello, Doctor.
As an assistant at a dental clinic, I have seen the blue light from the light-curing machine (which is used to harden dental fillings).
After that, during an eye examination, I noticed many bright spots, and the ophthalmologist diagnosed me with keratitis/corneal peeling/corneal disease.
After taking a week off work and undergoing treatment, the number of bright spots decreased by about one-third, but after three months of treatment, there was no improvement.
Later, at a teaching hospital for an initial consultation, the doctor said it was congenital corneal dystrophy and advised me to discontinue treatment, stating that it would not improve and would not harm my eyes, allowing me to live normally without special care or follow-up.
I have a few questions for you:
1.
With this condition, will exposure to blue light worsen the situation?
2.
What factors might increase or decrease the number of bright spots?
3.
With this condition, is there anything else I should be aware of? If you could recommend some books, I would like to learn more.
4.
How can I inform the ophthalmology clinic about which symptoms are related to keratitis and which are related to corneal dystrophy, so they do not misdiagnose? Since I want to avoid wasting medical resources, it is not feasible for me to visit the large hospital every time.
I apologize for my many questions and for not understanding everything.
Thank you for taking the time to clarify these issues.
Wishing you all the best.

Yuanzi, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2019/06/27

Dr. Gao Pilin reply Ophthalmology

Hello, Yuanzi:
1.
Will exposure to blue light worsen this condition?
Answer: It should not, as this blue light is likely just LED blue visible light.
2.
What factors might increase or decrease the appearance of spots?
Answer: If there is corneal abrasion, keeping the cornea moist with artificial tears can help reduce the appearance of spots.
However, if it is due to corneal dystrophy, there is no treatment available.
3.
What else should I be aware of with this condition? If you could recommend some books, I would like to learn more.

Answer: Corneal dystrophy represents a non-inflammatory corneal opacity that affects both eyes.
It can be classified into three main types based on the location of the corneal lesions: anterior corneal dystrophy (lesions located between the corneal epithelium and Bowman's membrane); stromal corneal dystrophy (lesions located in the corneal stroma); and posterior corneal dystrophy (lesions located between the corneal endothelium and Descemet's membrane).
I'm not sure which type you have, but as the hospital you visited mentioned, there is no need for special precautions, and it cannot be treated.
4.
How can I inform the ophthalmology clinic about the symptoms of keratitis versus those of corneal dystrophy to avoid misdiagnosis, since it is not feasible to visit a large hospital every time?
Answer: You should directly ask the diagnosing hospital to provide a summary of your medical history.
Since there are many types of corneal dystrophy, it may be difficult to describe them verbally.
If you cannot obtain a medical summary, simply inform the examining physician that you have been diagnosed with corneal dystrophy; the ophthalmologist should be able to make a proper assessment.
Taiwan E-Hospital Puzi Hospital Ophthalmology: Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, Friday from 8:00 AM to 12:00 PM; Wednesday from 2:00 PM to 4:30 PM.
Online responses are for reference only; if necessary, you should seek care at a medical facility.
I hope to have the opportunity to assist you.
Gao Pilin

Reply Date: 2019/06/27

More Info

Understanding corneal dystrophy and its relationship with blue light exposure is essential for managing your condition and ensuring optimal eye health. Corneal dystrophy is a group of inherited disorders characterized by the accumulation of material in the cornea, leading to visual impairment. It is important to clarify your concerns regarding blue light exposure, potential aggravation of your condition, and how to effectively communicate with your healthcare providers.

1. Impact of Blue Light on Corneal Dystrophy: Current research indicates that blue light, particularly from LED sources, does not significantly worsen corneal dystrophy. The blue light emitted from devices like dental curing lights is primarily visible light and is not known to cause damage to the cornea or exacerbate dystrophic changes. However, prolonged exposure to any bright light source can lead to discomfort or visual disturbances, especially in individuals with pre-existing corneal conditions. It is advisable to use protective eyewear when exposed to intense blue light to minimize discomfort.

2. Factors Affecting Visual Symptoms: The "dots" or bright spots you are experiencing could be attributed to several factors. If your cornea is compromised due to dystrophy, maintaining moisture is crucial. Artificial tears can help alleviate symptoms associated with corneal surface irregularities. If the dots are due to corneal erosions or superficial keratitis, treating the underlying dryness or irritation can reduce their frequency. However, if the symptoms are related to the dystrophic changes themselves, there may be limited options for improvement. Regular follow-ups with your eye care provider are essential to monitor any changes in your condition.

3. Management and Education: While corneal dystrophy is generally a non-inflammatory condition that does not require aggressive treatment, it is important to stay informed about your condition. You should be aware of the different types of corneal dystrophies, as they can vary in severity and symptoms. For further reading, consider books on corneal diseases or ophthalmology textbooks that cover corneal dystrophies in detail. Websites from reputable ophthalmology associations can also provide valuable resources.

4. Communicating with Eye Care Providers: To ensure that your eye care providers understand your condition accurately, it is beneficial to have a summary of your medical history, including your diagnosis of corneal dystrophy. This can be obtained from the specialist who diagnosed you. When visiting a new eye clinic, clearly state that you have been diagnosed with corneal dystrophy and describe your symptoms. Mention any previous diagnoses of corneal inflammation or erosions, as this context can help the provider differentiate between the two conditions. Providing a written summary can also help prevent miscommunication.

In conclusion, while blue light exposure is not likely to worsen your corneal dystrophy, maintaining good eye health through proper hydration and regular check-ups is crucial. Understanding your condition and effectively communicating with your healthcare providers will empower you to manage your symptoms better. If you have further concerns or experience changes in your vision, do not hesitate to seek professional advice. Your proactive approach to understanding and managing your eye health is commendable, and I wish you the best in your journey toward maintaining your vision.

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