EYE DISORDERS & GENERAL REFERENCE

Corneal Erosion

Corneal erosion is caused by a loose attachment of the epithelium to the underlying tissue. This often happens at the site of an earlier abrasion. Some patients have an underlying condition called “map-dot-fingerprint dystrophy” that predisposes them to having recurrent corneal erosions.

Symptoms of corneal erosion are similar to those of abrasions: pain, soreness, redness, and blurred vision. Typically, a patient complains of sudden onset of severe pain upon waking up and opening their eyes.

Treatment is the same as for corneal abrasion and may also include saline solution eye drops or ointments. Bandage contact lenses are commonly used as well. However, if the erosion keeps occurring, further treatment may be necessary. These treatments may include procedures to remove the damaged epithelium, removal of corneal cells using a laser, or performing an anterior stromal puncture, which involves making tiny holes on the surface of the cornea to promote stronger attachments between the top layer of corneal cells and the layer of the cornea underneath.