**Question:** All of the following are features of asteroid hyalosis except:

A. Increased intraocular pressure
B. Altered corneal sensation
C. Decreased tear production
D. Increased corneal thickness

**Core Concept:** Asteroid hyalosis is a condition characterized by the deposition of calcium and phosphate salts in the cornea, leading to a cloudy appearance and potential visual disturbances. It is commonly associated with various ocular conditions, including glaucoma, uveitis, and hypotony.

**Why the Correct Answer is Right:**

A. Increased intraocular pressure (IOP) is actually a feature of primary open-angle glaucoma, not asteroid hyalosis. Asteroid hyalosis itself does not cause elevated IOP.

B. Altered corneal sensation is related to neuropathies affecting corneal nerves, such as diabetic neuropathy or chemical burns. Asteroid hyalosis does not affect corneal sensation, as it is a corneal disorder.

C. Decreased tear production is a characteristic feature of dry eye syndrome, not asteroid hyalosis. Asteroid hyalosis is a corneal disorder, not a tear-related issue.

D. Increased corneal thickness is a result of the corneal calcification in asteroid hyalosis. This feature contributes to the cloudiness and visual disturbances associated with the condition.

**Why Each Wrong Option is Incorrect:**

A. Increased intraocular pressure is a feature of glaucoma, not asteroid hyalosis.
B. Altered corneal sensation is a feature of neuropathies affecting corneal nerves, not asteroid hyalosis.
C. Decreased tear production is a feature of dry eye syndrome, not asteroid hyalosis.
D. Corneal thickness remains normal in asteroid hyalosis; it is the deposition of calcium and phosphate salts that leads to increased corneal density and cloudiness.

**Clinical Pearl:** Asteroid hyalosis is a relatively common condition in older adults, particularly in those with a history of ocular trauma, surgery, or previous corneal disease. It is important for medical professionals to consider this condition in patients presenting with corneal cloudiness or visual disturbances to initiate appropriate management and provide accurate diagnosis.