Recurrent Erosion Syndrome
What is Recurrent Erosion Syndrome?
This condition is characterized by the breakdown of the corneal epithelium (the outermost layer of the cornea), due to weak attachment to the underlying layers.
The most common cause of Recurrent Erosion Syndrome is minor corneal injury, for instance something that could be caused by a fingernail. Other conditions that can cause Recurrent Erosion Syndrome include dystrophies, infections, diabetes, and dry eyes.
Signs & Symptoms
Symptoms of Recurrent Erosion Syndrome include feeling like something is in the eye, a sharp stabbing pain, tearing, redness, and light sensitivity. Symptoms usually occur during sleep or when waking up in the morning. The cornea usually heals in 1-2 days, but episodes of Recurrent Erosion Syndrome tend to recur at irregular intervals, from several days to weeks or even months later.
Treatment
Medical Therapy
- Patching of affected eye + an antibiotic ointment
- Hypertonic saline eye drops or ointment (for weeks to months)
- Therapeutic soft contact lens to protect the surface of the eye
Surgical Therapy
- Superficial Epithelial Scraping – a simple in-office procedure, during which the loose outer layer is gently scraped off.
- Anterior Stromal Puncture – a technique which introduces micropunctures into the cornea in order to induce epithelial adhesion and successful healing.
- Excimer Phototherapeutic Keratectomy – used in moderate-severe erosions in multiple locations; the goal is to provide a better anchor surface for the outer layer.
The information contained within these pages is intended for informational purposes only and does not take the place of consulting a physician.
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Caring for your corneas since 1988.