Basement membrane dystrophy is a disease that affects the cornea. It occurs when what’s known as the basement membrane does not function properly and corneal erosions can occur. This disease may also be called epithelial basement membrane dystrophy (EBMD), map-dot-fingerprint dystrophy, or anterior basement membrane dystrophy (ABMD). The condition is more likely to occur if there is a family history of the disease.
Symptoms of Basement Membrane Dystrophies
Not all people will have symptoms of this condition. Those who do present symptoms most commonly experience:
- Blurry or variable vision
- Sensation that there is a foreign object stuck in the eye
- Eye pain
Diagnosis & Treatment for Basement Membrane Dystrophies
Basement membrane dystrophies are diagnosed after a discussing any symptoms, family medical history, and a thorough, comprehensive examination done by your eye doctor. When the condition causes pain, vision impairment, or otherwise negatively impacts quality of life, your eye doctor may recommend medication (such as eye drops) or surgery to correct the problem.