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External and internal eye anatomy
External and internal eye anatomy

Choroidal dystrophies

Choroidal dystrophy is an eye disorder involving the choroid , a layer of blood vessels between the sclera and retina .

Choroidal dystrophy is usually due to an abnormal gene, which is passed down through families. It most often affects males, starting in childhood.

The first symptoms are peripheral vision loss and vision loss at night. An eye surgeon who specializes in the back of the eye (retina specialist) can diagnose this disorder.

Signs and tests

The following tests may be needed to diagnose the condition:

References

Grover S, Fishman GA. Choroidal dystrophies. In: Yanoff M, Duker JS, eds. Ophthalmology. 3rd ed. St. Louis, Mo: Mosby Elsevier; 2008:chap 6.

Updated: 10/26/2011

Linda J. Vorvick, MD, Medical Director, MEDEX Northwest Division of Physician Assistant Studies, University of Washington, School of Medicine. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc.


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