Recurrent corneal erosion occurs when the corneal surface repeatedly breaks down, causing sudden pain, often on waking. It is commonly linked to prior abrasion or epithelial basement membrane dystrophy.
Symptoms and triggers
Episodes can be sporadic or frequent.
- Sharp pain, watering, and light sensitivity on opening the eye
- Blurred vision and difficulty keeping the eye open
- Often triggered by the eyelid sticking to the cornea overnight
- Fluorescein staining shows epithelial defects at the affected site
Treatment
Management aims to promote stable adhesion of the surface layer.
- Lubricating ointment or hypertonic saline at night to reduce sticking
- Bandage contact lenses and topical antibiotics for acute episodes
- Anterior stromal puncture or phototherapeutic keratectomy for persistent cases
- Review for underlying dystrophy or diabetes that may impair healing
