Kerneaspekt

Kerneaspekt is a descriptive term in ophthalmology that refers to the combined visible properties of the cornea as assessed clinically and with imaging. It encompasses surface quality, transparency, and curvature-related appearance, as they contribute to the cornea’s refractive function.

The word is used primarily in German-language sources. It derives from kerat- (the cornea) and aspect (aspekt), intended to indicate an integrative view of corneal state rather than a single parameter.

Kerneaspekt includes surface smoothness or irregularity, presence of scarring, edema, haze or opacity, thickness profile, and the overall curvature pattern. It is evaluated with slit-lamp biomicroscopy, corneal topography, Scheimpflug imaging, anterior segment optical coherence tomography, and pachymetry. Clinically, a kerneaspekt classification may be described as clear and regular, clear but irregular, or opaque with various degrees of edema or scarring.

The concept is used to characterize corneal phenotypes in diseases such as keratoconus, corneal dystrophies, infectious keratitis, and post-surgical changes. It informs diagnosis, prognosis, and decisions in refractive or corneal procedures, and supports monitoring of progression or response to therapy.

Kerneaspekt is not a standardized quantitative metric in most practice; it remains a qualitative descriptor that complements established metrics like keratometry, pachymetry, and corneal wavefront analysis. Related terms include corneal clarity, surface irregularity, and anterior segment imaging descriptors.