Summary about Disease
Recurrent corneal erosion (RCE) is a condition where the outer layer of the cornea (the epithelium) doesn't properly adhere to the underlying basement membrane. This faulty adhesion leads to repeated episodes of corneal surface breakdown, causing pain, light sensitivity, and blurred vision, often upon awakening.
Symptoms
Sudden, sharp eye pain, often upon waking.
Feeling like something is in the eye (foreign body sensation).
Excessive tearing.
Light sensitivity (photophobia).
Blurred vision.
Redness of the eye.
Symptoms often worse in the morning.
Causes
Corneal abrasions: Previous injury to the cornea (e.g., scratch, contact lens wear) is the most common cause.
Corneal dystrophies: Some inherited corneal conditions, like epithelial basement membrane dystrophy (EBMD), predispose individuals to RCE.
Other corneal diseases: Certain conditions can disrupt the corneal surface and increase the risk.
Dry eye: Contributing factor.
Medicine Used
Lubricating eye drops and ointments: Used to keep the eye moist and promote healing, especially at night.
Hypertonic saline drops or ointment: Draws fluid out of the cornea, improving adhesion.
Topical antibiotics: To prevent infection during healing.
Topical steroids: (Used with caution and under doctor supervision) To reduce inflammation.
Bandage contact lens: Acts as a protective layer to aid healing.
Oral Doxycycline has been used to decrease recurrence rates due to its anti-inflammatory and collagen remodeling properties
Is Communicable
No, recurrent corneal erosion is not communicable or contagious.
Precautions
Use lubricating eye drops frequently, especially before sleep.
Use lubricating eye ointment at night.
Avoid rubbing your eyes.
Treat dry eye aggressively.
Consider using a humidifier, especially in dry environments.
Follow your doctor's instructions carefully regarding medication and follow-up appointments.
Wear protective eyewear when engaging in activities that could cause corneal injury.
How long does an outbreak last?
The duration of an RCE episode can vary from a few hours to several days. The frequency of episodes also varies greatly from person to person.
How is it diagnosed?
Medical history: Doctor will ask about symptoms and any previous eye injuries or conditions.
Slit-lamp examination: A microscopic examination of the cornea to look for signs of epithelial defects or loose epithelium.
Fluorescein staining: A dye is applied to the eye to highlight areas of corneal damage.
Timeline of Symptoms
Morning: Symptoms are typically worst upon awakening.
Throughout the day: Symptoms may improve gradually, but can be exacerbated by activities that dry the eye or cause further irritation.
Night: Symptoms usually subside as the eye is closed and lubricated, but may recur the next morning.
Recurrence: Episodes can occur sporadically or frequently, depending on the individual and underlying cause.
Important Considerations
RCE can be a chronic condition, requiring long-term management.
Proper adherence to treatment regimens is crucial for preventing recurrences.
Surgical options, such as anterior stromal puncture or phototherapeutic keratectomy (PTK), may be considered if conservative treatments are unsuccessful.
A prompt and accurate diagnosis is important to manage symptoms.
Consult a qualified eye care professional (ophthalmologist or optometrist) for proper diagnosis and treatment.