Recurrent granular corneal dystrophy.

Four full-thickness corneal buttons and tissue from one lamellar keratoplasty, derived from four patients with granular corneal dystrophy recurring in previously transplanted corneas, were studied by light and transmission electron microscopy. Fibrous tissue without vascularization was present between the epithelium and Bowman's membrane and contained deposits characteristic of granular dystrophy in both light and electron microscopy. The recurrence of dystrophy in the normal donor cornea is the result of infiltration of the grafted cornea by host invasion. The donor stroma is spared.