Through research, physicians and patients learn about the causes of disease. This can offer new ways to diagnose and treat patients' conditions.
Since Fuchs' corneal dystrophy is passed through families, knowledge gained from research studies today may provide benefits in the future to children who have inherited the condition.
If you know of other relatives who also have Fuchs', your family's participation may contribute to valuable discoveries regarding this disease.
What research is being done?
We are currently studying various types of Fuchs' corneal dystrophy to examine how the condition progresses over time. We are interested in how the disease runs in families, what factors contribute to its progression, and ways to assess the condition.
What would participating include?
We may examine your cornea with a slit-lamp, measure its thickness and/or take photos. A small blood sample may be taken to examine your DNA. If you have a corneal transplant in the future, you can also contribute tissue that is removed as part of your surgery.
I'd like to participate. Who do I contact?
If you are interested in participating, you can reach Bethany Bailey via email or by calling (410) 955-7928.
You can also write to the office at:
Fuchs' Corneal Dystrophy study
c/o Bethany Bailey
The Wilmer Eye Institute
Maumenee 317
Johns Hopkins Hospital
600 N. Wolfe St.
Baltimore, MD 21287
Please include the following:
Name
Age
Diagnosis (for each eye)
When you were diagnosed
Size of your family (including family tree if possible) and how many others have been diagnosed
Contact information
How best we can reach you
