H18.5: Hereditary corneal dystrophies

The cornea is located at the front of the eye. It is transparent and curved. The curvature focuses light in the eye. This is vital to be able to see clearly. The cornea is made up of several very thin layers.

A hereditary disease has damaged your cornea. This disease usually affects both eyes. The change can affect different layers of the cornea. This kind of change makes the cornea become more and more cloudy. This causes the person’s eyesight to become increasingly poor. The person may also have a sore eye.

Patient Disclaimer

The information provided on this page is for general educational purposes only. It is not intended for self-diagnosis and does not replace professional medical advice. Always consult your doctor or a qualified healthcare provider with any questions or concerns about your health.

If you see an ICD diagnosis code (e.g., on a medical report), be aware that doctors may also include additional indicators to express diagnostic certainty. Only a healthcare professional can interpret these codes accurately in the context of your individual case.

For a complete understanding of your condition and what the diagnosis means for you, please speak directly with your doctor.