What is the endothelial count?

By Cristiano Antonino On Feb 21, 2023

The endothelial count consists in the evaluation of the deepest layer of cells of the cornea, the corneal endothelium, essential for the health and transparency of the cornea

What is the endothelial count used for?

The endothelial count is used to study the cells that form the corneal endothelium by examining their vitality, density, shape, size and variability.

Interpretation of the collected data makes it possible to verify the state of health and the efficiency of these cells both in view of surgical interventions, in order to prepare additional protective actions, and in order to prevent and counteract the pathologies affecting the cornea (because disease of this layer of cells causes the cornea to lose transparency).

Which patients can take the test?

Everyone can undergo an endothelial count, at all ages, including children, provided they are able to guarantee acceptable collaboration, following the doctor’s instructions (illustrated in the paragraph “How does it work?”).

It is an examination particularly indicated in all subjects who know they are at risk for corneal endothelial diseases, in contact lens wearers, in patients who have to undergo intraocular surgery (cataract, glaucoma, cross-linking, corneal transplant) or in refractive surgery and in patients with corneal diseases.

Is the endothelial count painful or dangerous?

The endothelial count is a non-invasive test, i.e. it does not violate the patient’s safety.

How does the endothelial count work?

Performing an endothelial count consists in photographing the innermost surface of the cornea with a computerized camera.

The patient, seated on a stool with forehead and chin resting on special structures, must stare at a light source for a few seconds.

In the meantime, a video camera takes a series of photographs of the cornea and a computer processes the information received based on the type of pathology under examination or the diagnostics required for each patient.

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