Pellucid marginal degeneration is characterised by a narrow area of thinning in the lower part of the cornea. Above the area of thinning, the cornea shows a normal thickness but is often flattened, while the cornea is steeper below the thin area. Corneal topography often shows a typical “crab” shape.
To make a correct diagnosis, chart any changes to the disease and determine the right follow-up or treatment, several tests will be carried out during your visit to our outpatients’ clinic, such as:
The choice of treatment for pellucid marginal degeneration and other corneal ectasias is based on the severity of the disease, the nature of the symptoms and the presence of any progression.
Since a strong correlation has been found between the worsening of corneal ectasias and rubbing the eyes, the first advice is to stop rubbing your eyes. Research has shown that this has a beneficial effect on stabilisation. If an allergy is causing the rubbing, the ophthalmologist may prescribe medication.
In the early stages of ectasia, visual acuity can often be improved by the correction of glasses. If correcting glasses does not have a sufficient effect, vision can be improved with the help of contact lenses. This method is possible in both incipient and advanced corneal ectasia. There are different types of contact lenses available, including soft lenses, shape-stable lenses, hybrid lenses and scleral lenses. Advice and fitting of contact lenses are available at the clinic. This is done by Visser Contactlenzen.
Sometimes corneal surgery will be recommended or even needed. Different treatments are available, depending on the severity of the keratoglobus and the intended goal.
