If, after trauma or due to map-dot-fingerprint dystrophy, the basal membrane of the epithelium (a thin layer of connective tissue on which the epithelium rests) is disturbed and does not adhere well to the epithelium, the erosion will recur and we speak of a recurrent erosion. New erosions can occur, even months after the original trauma.
Corneal erosion can occur following chemical, thermal or mechanical eye trauma, but extremely dry eyes or map-dot-fingerprint dystrophy (also called Cogan’s corneal dystrophy) can also damage the surface of the cornea.
Corneal erosion is often very painful, especially when you blink your eyes. It can also cause tears (flood of tears) and poor light tolerance (photophobia). In the case of recurrent erosion, the symptoms often recur during the night or when you open your eyes on waking up in the morning. It is also possible that your vision may be temporarily impaired.
The eye and the cornea are first examined in detail to make a proper diagnosis and draw up a treatment plan. In addition to the standard examinations, the following ones are specifically important in the case of recurrent corneal erosion:
If erosion is detected, an eye dressing with antibiotic ointment will be placed on your eye. This will reduce the symptoms; in most cases, the damage will be repaired within a week.
To protect the cornea as best as possible, eye ointments and eye drops are often prescribed for recurrent erosions. You can use eye drops during the day to keep your eyes well moisturised. At night, you use the ointment to prevent the symptoms from recurring when you open your eyes in the morning.
A bandage lens is a lens that is used to protect the eye. The lens is not for correcting vision. It is like a transparent bandage made of special material for the eye. The lens stays in your eye day and night, unless otherwise advised. The duration of the treatment varies according to the situation and the type of bandage lens.
Surgical treatment may be considered if the symptoms persist despite treatment with ointment, eye drops and bandage lenses. Depending on your situation, abrasion or a phototherapeutic keratectomy may then be performed.
