We have received the following query regarding the concept 413921009 |Corneal subepithelial haze (disorder)|:

“The FSN 413921009 |Corneal subepithelial haze (disorder)| is represented by a synonym “Corneal haze”. There are two concepts, 424353002 |Corneal haze caused by herpes zoster (disorder)| and 425961009 |Corneal haze caused by herpes simplex (disorder)|, which we would expect to be children of 413921009 |Corneal subepithelial haze (disorder)|. However, they are siblings. Also, the wording of the FSN is “Corneal haze”, i.e. not in alignment with 413921009 |Corneal subepithelial haze (disorder)|.”

1. Should viral corneal haze be classified as a subtype of subepithelial haze, or can it also affect other corneal layers, such as the stroma?
2. Is the synonym ‘Corneal haze’ appropriate for the concept 413921009 |Corneal subepithelial haze (disorder)| if haze can occur in other layers of the cornea? If so, should a new concept for ‘Stromal corneal haze’ be created to distinguish between different types of corneal haze?”

The definition in the AAO dictionary of the eye is as follows:
An opacification or cloudiness of the normally clear cornea in the stoma or subepithelial layers. Can occur with corneal infection, glaucoma or during the healing process after any corneal surgery. Most types will dissappear with time or drug treatment but may be permanent.