LaserVision

What is Recurrent Erosion Syndrome?

Recurrent erosion syndrome (RES) refers to repeated episodes of superficial, spontaneous abrasions leading to eye pain. Erosions are “scratches” on the surface of the cornea, the clear portion of the eye overlying the iris and the pupil. In many cases, the cells of the outer layer of the cornea are loosely attached to the underlying tissue. These cells spontaneously slough leading to recurrent erosions. Most episodes occur without an identifiable precipitant. RES remains a common and often under diagnosed condition that can have a great impact on the quality of life for patients.

Recurrent Erosion Syndrome Symptoms

What are the Symptoms?

  • Episodes of mild to severe ocular pain
  • Redness
  • Tearing
  • Light sensitivity
  • Disturbed sleep, due to pain / discomfort
  • Blurred vision

What are the Causes?

Recurrent Erosion Syndrome typically occurs in eyes that have suffered an abrasive injury (from a fingernail or paper cut). However, it may also occur spontaneously. In these cases, there is often an underlying corneal dystrophy such as Epithelial Basement Membrane Dystrophy. The area of the erosion will heal initially but it is prone to reforming in the future without clinical intervention.

Causes
Causes

What are the Causes?

Recurrent Erosion Syndrome typically occurs in eyes that have suffered an abrasive injury (from a fingernail or paper cut). However, it may also occur spontaneously. In these cases, there is often an underlying corneal dystrophy such as Epithelial Basement Membrane Dystrophy. The area of the erosion will heal initially but it is prone to reforming in the future without clinical intervention.

Recurrent Erosion Syndrome Diagnosis

What is the Diagnosis?

A person who is affected by recurrent erosion may be prescribed night-time viscous lubricants for 3 months to encourage the surface epithelium to bind to the underlying basal lamina. Where this is ineffective, Laser Vision surgeons can perform a Photo-therapeutic Keratectomy (PTK) using the latest Schwind Amaris 1050RS laser. This procedure is designed to stimulate better adhesion of the epithelium to the corneal layers underneath and is successful in 80-90% of cases.

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Need to know more about this condition?

If you’d like some more information or to discuss this condition with one of our experts, simply drop us a line or give us a call and we’d be delighted to speak with you.
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