Recurrent Erosion Syndrome

What is Recurrent Erosion Syndrome?

Recurrent erosion syndrome is a common but very painful condition that occurs in the cornea.  The cornea is the clear window at the front of your eyes.  Recurrent erosions occur when the superficial layer of the cornea called “epithelium” breaks down.  The breakdown leads to an erosion on the surface of the eye that is extremely painful. 

What causes recurrent erosion syndrome?

Recurrent erosions are generally caused by trauma (fingernails and plant matter are often at fault) or an inherent predisposition in your eye called epithelial basement membrane dystrophy.  In traumatic cases the erosions occur months to years after the initial traumatic incident.  Patients often find the recurrent erosions happen during their deep rapid eye movement sleep as their eyes move under their eyelids.  Depending on the size of the erosion people can be in significant pain for days. 

How do you treat recurrent erosion syndrome?

An excimer laser treatment to the foundation layer of the corneal epithelium is extremely effective at stopping these extremely painful and recurrent erosions from recurring.  The laser is often combined with other treatments to ensure the condition does not recur.