HEREDITARY DEEP DYSTROPHY OF CORNEA (POLYMORPHOUS)

1. 1. A case of hereditary deep dystrophy of the cornea (polymorphous) is reported. A keratoplasty was necessary in one eye because of corneal edema. 2. 2. The corneal button was studied by light and electron microscopy and showed four types of lesions, including nodules, ridges, diffuse deep corneal lamellar changes and cornea guttata. 3. 3. Crystals were found in the nodules and deep corneal lamellas, and were identified as calcium by the von Kossa and alizarin red stains. Their presence was confirmed by electron microscopy in all these locations. The findings suggest that this is a hereditary metabolic disorder, possibly related to a disturbed calcium metabolism. © 1969.