From the Research
Central corneal thickness in pseudoexfoliation syndrome is generally thinner compared to normal eyes, with a significant difference of approximately 20-30 microns, as reported in the most recent study 1. This difference in corneal thickness is clinically significant because it can affect intraocular pressure measurements, potentially leading to underestimation of true intraocular pressure in these patients. The thinner corneas in pseudoexfoliation syndrome are believed to result from alterations in the extracellular matrix and abnormal fibrillar material deposition that characterizes this condition, affecting the structural integrity of the cornea. Some key points to consider include:
- Central corneal thickness (CCT) in pseudoexfoliation syndrome is significantly thinner compared to normal eyes, with mean CCT values ranging from 526-530 μm in pseudoexfoliation syndrome patients versus 547-551 μm in normal individuals, as reported in studies 2, 3, 1.
- The difference in corneal thickness between pseudoexfoliation syndrome and normal eyes can lead to underestimation of intraocular pressure, which is crucial for proper diagnosis and treatment of glaucoma in these patients.
- Clinicians should consider performing pachymetry to measure central corneal thickness in pseudoexfoliation syndrome patients and adjust intraocular pressure readings accordingly to ensure appropriate clinical decision-making, as suggested by studies 2, 3, 1.
- The most recent study 1 used anterior segment optical coherence tomography (AS-OCT) to evaluate corneal sublayer thickness in patients with pseudoexfoliation syndrome and found that all corneal sublayers except Bowman's layer were thinner in eyes with pseudoexfoliation syndrome compared to healthy eyes.
- Another study 4 highlighted the importance of accurate diagnosis and treatment of pseudoexfoliation glaucoma, given its higher risk of vision loss and association with systemic diseases. Overall, the evidence suggests that central corneal thickness in pseudoexfoliation syndrome is thinner compared to normal eyes, which has significant implications for glaucoma management and intraocular pressure measurements in these patients.