ELI5: Explain Like I'm 5

Corneal dystrophies in human

The front part of our eyes have a transparent layer which is called a cornea. It is like a window which allows light to enter our eyes. Sometimes, the cornea can become cloudy or hazy due to a condition called corneal dystrophy.

Corneal dystrophy is a disease in which the cornea's clear outer surface gets affected and becomes abnormal. This can happen due to the accumulation of substances like protein or fats in the cornea which can cause a loss of transparency.

Imagine you are playing with a glass window pane and you accidentally put your dirty hands on it. The dirt would make it difficult to see through the glass. Similarly, corneal dystrophy makes it hard for people to see because the substances that collect on the cornea affect its transparency.

Corneal dystrophy can be caused by various factors such as genetics or aging. Some people are born with it, while others develop it later in life. The disease can affect one or both eyes, and it can lead to vision loss, discomfort, and even blindness.

Fortunately, modern medicine has advanced in treating corneal dystrophies. Doctors can diagnose the disease through special tests and prescribe the appropriate treatment like eye drops, laser therapy, or even surgery to remove the affected corneal tissue.

Even though it sounds scary, doctors work hard to make sure that people with corneal dystrophy can live a happy and fulfilling life. They make sure their patients can still see clearly and enjoy the beautiful world around them.