Is Fuchs’ dystrophy found through a normal eye exam?

The hallmark sign of Fuchs' dystrophy (condition that causes cells to die on the inner layer of the cornea) is the presence of guttae (small areas on the cornea where endothelial cells have died) on the inner surface of the cornea. These can be detected on a routine slit-lamp exam (special microscope with bright light that illuminates the front part of the eye). Sometimes, iris (colored part of eye) pigment can collect on the inner surface of the cornea and can be confused for guttae. In these cases, another test called specular microscopy testing can help with the diagnosis.