Avellino DNA Dual Test for LASIK Safety

Post date: May 05, 2014 1:29:38 AM

Avellino (aka Granular Corneal Dystrophy Type 2) and Granular Corneal Dystrophy Type 1 are genetically inherited disorders that can now be tested for using the Avellino DNA Dual Test for LASIK Safety. According to the company that makes this test, by testing for whether a patient has these respective genes, you can tell if a patient will develop the disease before slit lamp findings are observed.

It seems from this summary here that the company making this test is advocating for its use on all pre-laser vision correction patients. How do you guys feel about that?

On the one hand, it can help detect a disorder that will lead to post-op complications should the patient develop the disorder later on down the line. On the other hand, with these diseases being so rare ... I've seen only one case of Granular in my entire career ... it could be considered unnecessary.

According to a quick Wiki search, Granular Corneal Dystrophies are inherited in an autosomal dominant fashion, and slit lamp findings usually begin to present themselves in childhood or adolescence. Would it make better sense to maybe only test those with a family history? Or, knowing the genetics, do we even need to test those with a parent that has this disorder? - jw