Phenotype/genotype evolution in corneal dystrophies

Abstract Purpose The corneal dystrophies are a group of genetically determined diseases usually characterized by loss of corneal transparency, which may be caused by a progressive accumulation of abnormal material within the cornea. The genetic characterization of corneal dystrophies revealed both genetic heterogeneity, that is, different genes (KRT3 and KRT12) causing a single dystrophy phenotype (Meesmann dystrophy), and phenotypic heterogeneity with a single gene (TGFBI) causing different allelic dystrophy phenotypes (RBCD, TBCD, granular type 1, granular type 2, and lattice type 1).But less is known about the evolution of the phenotype during life. Methods We were interesting in following the corneal phénotype progressive evolution during childhood. During several years we analyzed corneal phénotype of families of Lattice type 1 and granular type 1, using Scheimpflug camera. Results We were able to follow the accumulation of abnormal material, his corneal localisation and evolution during years. Conclusion The phenotype of both Lattice type 1 and granular type 1 is totally different in childhood, with subepithelial localization.