Corneal dystrophies are usually classified histopathologically according to the layer of the cornea that is affected. The International Committee for the Classification of Corneal Dystrophies (IC3D) takes this anatomical classification as referral with summarizing clinical, genetic, and pathological data.

Most of this classification relies on slit lamp findings or histologic specimen, since in-vivo imaging of corneal microstructures has only become available in the recent years. With confocal microscopy it is possible to image corneal microstructures at a high resolution, but this technique is limited by its reduced repeatability and the fact that only a small area can be imaged. By the use of optical coherence tomography (OCT) systems it is possible to overcome these limitations. Commercially available systems, however, only have an axial resolution of about 18 µm which is not sufficient for imaging of all corneal layers.

Recently, a high-resolution optical coherence tomography (OCT) system was developed at the Center for Medical Physics and Biomedical Engineering that enables a resolution of about 1 µm. With this resolution, all corneal structures and several pathologies can be visualized.

In the present study the investigators want to use this OCT system to image corneal dystrophies in patients scheduled for corneal transplantation.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Men and women aged over 18 years
• Presence of corneal dystrophy
• Scheduled for corneal transplantation (PK, ALK, DALK, DSAEK or DMEK)
• No previous corneal surgery in the study eye

Exclusion Criteria:

• Participation in a clinical trial in the previous 3 weeks
• Presence of any abnormalities preventing reliable measurements as judged by the investigator
• Pregnancy, planned pregnancy or lactating