What are some facts about corneal dystrophy?

Corneal dystrophy is a genetic, often progressive eye disorder that is caused by the accumulation of abnormal material in the outer layer of the eye or cornea, according to WebMD. The disorder may cause substantial eye damage in some people, while others may experience no symptoms.

Various forms of corneal dystrophies exist, and their particular symptoms and the age of onset vary. Most forms of the disease are bilateral, or affect both eyes, progress slowly and do not affect other parts of the body, states WebMD. Most forms are inherited as autosomal dominant traits, but some are passed on as autosomal recessive traits.