What are the other Names for this Condition? (Also known as/Synonyms)

• Corneal Ascher Ring

What is Ascher Ring? (Definition/Background Information)

• Ascher Ring is an eye abnormality in which a ring-shaped symmetric opacity is observed in the mid-peripheral region of the cornea, involving both the eyes (bilateral condition)
• The cause and risk factors for the condition are unknown. Ascher Ring is an extremely rare condition that does not require treatment, because it is asymptomatic, and no visual impairment is noted

Who gets Ascher Ring? (Age and Sex Distribution)

• Ascher Ring is a highly uncommon condition that is diagnosed incidentally in adults. Only a few cases have been recorded in the medical literature
• Both males and females may be affected
• Worldwide, individuals of all races and ethnicity are prone to developing the condition

What are the Risk Factors for Ascher Ring? (Predisposing Factors)

• Currently, the risk factors for Ascher Ring are not established
• A family history of the condition is not believed to be a risk factor for this condition

It is important to note that having a risk factor does not mean that one will get the condition. A risk factor increases one’s chances of getting a condition compared to an individual without the risk factors. Some risk factors are more important than others.

Also, not having a risk factor does not mean that an individual will not get the condition. It is always important to discuss the effect of risk factors with your healthcare provider.

What are the Causes of Ascher Ring? (Etiology)

The exact cause of development of Ascher Ring is not well-established. It manifests as a bilateral and symmetrical opaque corneal band presenting no symptoms.

What are the Signs and Symptoms of Ascher Ring?

• In general, Ascher Ring does not present any signs and symptoms
• It is often an incidental finding when the individual is undergoing eye exams for other health conditions
• No other corneal anomalies are usually noted concurrently with Ascher Ring

How is Ascher Ring Diagnosed?

The diagnosis of Ascher Ring may involve the following observations and tests:

• Physical examination and medical history evaluation
• Assessment of signs and symptoms, if any noted
• General eye exam
• Lipid profile tests
• Fundoscopic (ophthalmoscopic) examination by an eye specialist, who examines the back part of the eye (or the fundus)
• Visual acuity test using a special and standardized test chart (Snellen chart)
• Slit-lamp examination, which can help in diagnosing the condition
• Gonioscopy, a painless eye exam using special devices
• Visual evoked potential (VEP) test
• Optical coherence tomography (OCT) of eye

Many clinical conditions may have similar signs and symptoms. Your healthcare provider may perform additional tests to rule out other clinical conditions to arrive at a definitive diagnosis.

What are the possible Complications of Ascher Ring?

No significant complications of Ascher Ring are typically noted.

How is Ascher Ring Treated?

• Generally, no treatment measures are required for Ascher Ring since the condition is asymptomatic and does not affect eye health
• A wait and watch approach may be considered by the healthcare provider, if necessary

How can Ascher Ring be Prevented?

Presently, it is difficult to prevent Ascher Ring since the cause of the condition is unknown.

What is the Prognosis of Ascher Ring? (Outcomes/Resolutions)

The prognosis in Ascher Ring is excellent since both eye health and vision are not generally affected, and no treatment is necessary.

Additional and Relevant Useful Information for Ascher Ring:

Please visit our Eye & Vision Health Center for more physician-approved health information:

https://www.dovemed.com/health-topics/vision-center/