Meesmann corneal dystrophy

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Reviewed August 2012

What is Meesmann corneal dystrophy?

Meesmann corneal dystrophy is an eye disease that affects the cornea, which is the clear front covering of the eye. This condition is characterized by the formation of tiny round cysts in the outermost layer of the cornea, called the corneal epithelium. This part of the cornea acts as a barrier to help prevent foreign materials, such as dust and bacteria, from entering the eye.
In people with Meesmann corneal dystrophy, cysts can appear as early as the first year of life. They usually affect both eyes and increase in number over time. The cysts usually do not cause any symptoms until late adolescence or adulthood, when they start to break open (rupture) on the surface of the cornea and cause irritation. The resulting symptoms typically include increased sensitivity to light (photophobia), twitching of the eyelids (blepharospasm), increased tear production, the sensation of having a foreign object in the eye, and an inability to tolerate wearing contact lenses. Meesmann corneal dystrophy does not usually cause vision loss, although some affected individuals have temporary episodes of blurred vision.

How common is Meesmann corneal dystrophy?

Meesmann corneal dystrophy is a rare disorder whose prevalence is unknown. It was first described in a large, multi-generational German family with more than 100 affected members. Since then, the condition has been reported in individuals and families worldwide.

What genes are related to Meesmann corneal dystrophy?

Meesmann corneal dystrophy can result from mutations in either the KRT12 gene or the KRT3 gene. These genes provide instructions for making proteins called keratin 12 and keratin 3, which are found in the corneal epithelium. The two proteins interact to form the structural framework of this layer of the cornea. Mutations in either the KRT12 or KRT3 gene weaken this framework, causing the corneal epithelium to become fragile and to develop the cysts that characterize the disorder. The cysts likely contain clumps of abnormal keratin proteins and other cellular debris. When the cysts rupture, they cause eye irritation and the other symptoms of Meesmann corneal dystrophy.
Read more about the KRT3 and KRT12 genes.

How do people inherit Meesmann corneal dystrophy?

This condition is inherited in an autosomal dominant pattern, which means one copy of an altered KRT12 or KRT3 gene in each cell is sufficient to cause the disorder. In most cases, an affected person inherits the condition from an affected parent.

Where can I find information about diagnosis or management of Meesmann corneal dystrophy?

These resources address the diagnosis or management of Meesmann corneal dystrophy and may include treatment providers.

Merck Manual Home Health Handbook: Tests for Eye Disorders: The Eye Examination

You might also find information on the diagnosis or management of Meesmann corneal dystrophy in Educational resources and Patient support.
To locate a healthcare provider, see How can I find a genetics professional in my area? in the Handbook