Hope for some eye problems as new layer is found in the eye
(PRWEB UK) 10 July 2013 -- Dua’s layer is thought to measure as little as 15 micrometers thick. It is contained within the cornea – the transparent part at the front of the eye that focuses light into the eye. Although very thin it is known to be very strong. Harminder Singh Dua’s group at the University of Nottingham carried out various tests through optical and electron microscopy and revealed a tiny layer of collagen tissue between the layers of the stroma and Descemet’s membrane of the cornea.
So how can we use these results to benefit patients? The success rates for patients having corneal grafts and corneal transplants could be improved. There are many diseases that affect the cornea such as acute hydrops and corneal dystrophies that can significantly reduce vision over time as well as injuries to the eye and all may involve this newly discovered layer.
Keratoconus, a common progressive and degenerating condition of the eyes, can be better understood from these findings. In fact it is a tear in Dua’s layer that causes corneal hydrops which is seen in keratoconic patients.
Harminder Dua and his group found this new layer from studying corneal grafts and transplants on donated eyes for research.
Kishan Devraj, Optometrist of online retailer of prescription contact lenses contactlensmail.co.uk, states the significance of this. ‘This discovery will certainly change the way we learn about and treat some eye conditions. The many people who suffer from conditions like advanced keratoconus may have hope in new ideas when it comes to surgery to restore best possible vision'.
Full details of this study can be found in Journal Ophthalmology
Kishan Devrai, Contact Lens Mail Ltd, http://contactlensmail.co.uk, 02089336453, [email protected]
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