> Eye Disease

• Symptoms & Characteristics
• Treatment
• How Common Is It?
• Genetics & Inheritance
• Genetic Testing
• Support & More Information
• Alternative Names

Last Reviewed June 2, 2009

Symptoms & Characteristics

Eye disease can affect various parts of the eye. Some eye problems are minor and resolve quickly, while others can lead to permanent vision loss (blindness). Some common eye diseases include:

• cataracts - involves clouding in the lens

• glaucoma - involves progressive damage to the optic nerve from too much pressure in the eye

• macular degeneration - involves progressive retinal damage destroying central vision

Some common symptoms of eye disease include sudden changes in vision, seeing flashes of light, pain, double vision, fluid coming from the eye and inflammation. However, not all eye diseases have symptoms.

Treatment

Regular eye check-ups may aid in early detection. Early detection and treatment can sometimes, prevent vision loss.

If someone notices or experiences any of the signs or symptoms common to eye disease, it is important to see a doctor.

How Common Is It?

Eye diseases are common. The incidence varies by specific type.

Genetics & Inheritance

While some eye diseases (such as eye infections) are acquired, others are multifactorial conditions, which means they involve a combination of genetic, lifestyle and environmental factors.

Although most non-acquired eye diseases have some genetic component, studies have shown that some types of eye disease have a stronger genetic component than others.

• Congenital cataracts as opposed to age-related cataracts are more likely to be hereditary. Nearly 30% of congenital cataracts are inherited in an autosomal dominant manner.

• Early-onset glaucoma (glaucoma diagnosed before age 40) as opposed to late-onset glaucoma is typically inherited.

• Many people with age-related macular degeneration have at least one other affected family member.

The estimated recurrence risk for eye disease in a family depends on many factors. These factors may include the number of affected people in the family, the degree of relationship (close, distant) of the affected relatives, as well as the type(s) of eye disease. A genetic consultation with a trained genetic professional may be beneficial in assessing recurrence risk.

Genetic Testing

Clinical genetic testing for some genetic causes of eye disease may be available through an in person genetic consultation for people who are considered at risk. For more information on the genetics of eye disease, accurate diagnosis, and recurrence risk; use our find a genetic professional directory to locate a trained genetic professional in your area.

• A medical geneticist can also be found at the American College of Medical Genetics website.

• A genetic counselor can also be found at the National Society of Genetic Counselors website.

Support & More Information

• MedlinePlus

Alternative Names

• eye problems