Band shaped keratopathy is caused by-
**Core Concept**
Band shaped keratopathy is a type of corneal pathology characterized by the deposition of calcium salts in the Bowman's layer of the cornea, leading to the formation of a band-like opacity. This condition is often associated with chronic uveitis, glaucoma, and other systemic diseases.
**Why the Correct Answer is Right**
The correct answer is related to the underlying pathophysiology of band shaped keratopathy. The deposition of calcium salts in the cornea is thought to occur due to the breakdown of the blood-aqueous barrier, allowing calcium ions to enter the cornea and precipitate out as calcium salts. This process is often seen in chronic inflammatory conditions such as uveitis, where the inflammation leads to the breakdown of the blood-aqueous barrier and the activation of various inflammatory cells and mediators.
**Why Each Wrong Option is Incorrect**
**Option A:** This option is incorrect because band shaped keratopathy is not primarily caused by a systemic metabolic disorder such as hypercalcemia. While hypercalcemia can contribute to the development of band shaped keratopathy, it is not the primary cause.
**Option B:** This option is incorrect because band shaped keratopathy is not a type of corneal dystrophy. Corneal dystrophies are a group of inherited disorders that affect the cornea, but band shaped keratopathy is a type of acquired corneal pathology.
**Option C:** This option is incorrect because band shaped keratopathy is not a type of corneal ulcer. Corneal ulcers are open sores on the surface of the cornea, but band shaped keratopathy is a type of corneal opacity caused by the deposition of calcium salts.
**Clinical Pearl / High-Yield Fact**
Band shaped keratopathy is often associated with chronic uveitis, and patients with this condition may also have other systemic diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis or sarcoidosis. It is essential to consider these associations when evaluating patients with band shaped keratopathy.
**Correct Answer:** C. Chronic uveitis