​Arcus Senilis And Other Common Eye Conditions

Arcus senilis is a harmless and common condition. It occurs to people ranging from middle to older age. A white or grey ring appears on the corneal edge. The ring is usually made of cholesterol and lipids which gets deposited in the cornea.

Studies reveal that there is no link between heart disease and arcus senilis because of the cholesterol deposition. It is more visible for people having brown iris, than people having blue iris. Usually people do not notice it at first. This is a common condition and does not pose any risk. But it becomes a cause of concern when it is seen in only one eye. This can indicate having a carotid artery but there is nothing to worry as it occurs very rarely. People who are less than 40 and have arcus are required to do a blood test and check lipid levels.

Crocodile shagreen:

It is a condition not common as arcus senilis, but is seen during regular eye checkups. It is a corneal condition in which the collagen fibers get degenerated with ageing. The name ‘shagreen’ comes from shark crocodile skin and is a type of rough leather. This condition does not affect the vision and thus requires no treatment.

Xanthelasma:

Sometimes yellowish lumps appear under the skin, near to the inner cornea. They have clear edges and are caused by cholesterol deposits and it occurs with ageing. There is no treatment required with this condition. But it is advisable to consult a doctor as other conditions with similar appearance can occur. It is also seen with people who have normal cholesterol levels.

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