Should I Have A Genetic Eye Test?

Should I have a genetic eye test?

If you have keratoconus, a corneal dystrophy, or a family history of keratoconus or corneal dystrophy early testing is important.  Let’s start with the basics about these two eye conditions and then find out why. 

Keratoconus



Keratoconus is a genetic eye condition that occurs when the cornea—the clear, rounded front part of the eye—thins and bulges into a cone-like shape.

It can cause symptoms such as blurred vision, seeing glare and halos around light, eye pain, and sensitivity to light. If left untreated, the cornea will continue to change shape, and vision will progressively worsen over time. In advanced cases, keratoconus may result in a corneal transplant. 

Corneal Dystrophy

There are many types of corneal dystrophies, but one group of sight-threatening corneal dystrophies are called TGFBI. TGFBI corneal dystrophies are a group of rare but harmful genetic eye disorders that run in families and cause changes in the cornea.  The corneal

changes range from swelling to a buildup of abnormal material.

Common symptoms of corneal dystrophy include vision loss, eye pain, dry eye, sensitivity to light and glare, or the feeling that something is in your eye.

Why Early Testing is Important

In the past, keratoconus and corneal dystrophy could only be diagnosed by a doctor physically examining the shape and appearance of the cornea. This meant the disease may be undiagnosed, and continue to progressively worsen and permanently affect vision over time. That’s why the early and accurate diagnosis with AvaGen™genetic eye test makes it such a key step for maintaining your eye health today and int the future.

With AvaGen™, you will have the peace of mind of knowing you are doing the utmost to protect your vision, and the confidence of being able to take immediate action if needed.

Are my family members at risk?

The groundbreaking AvaGen™genetic eye test leverages powerful genetic information to provide your eye doctor with an early and accurate

understanding of keratoconus risk, and the presence of TGFBI gene related corneal dystrophies. By delivering these insights in both asymptomatic and

suspected patients, AvaGen™enables new opportunities for proactive sight-saving interventions and confident surgical decisions. 

Now with AvaGen™ genetic testing you and your eye doctor can better assess the risk you or your family has for keratoconus and corneal dystrophy.