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Recurrent corneal erosion
Last reviewed: 07.07.2025
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Recurrent corneal erosion is rare. It can be diffuse or localized. The patient's complaints are quite typical: in the morning he opened his eyes and felt a sharp cutting pain, he feels a speck of dust in his eye, tears flow. Biomicroscopy reveals a limited (1-2 mm) epithelial defect and slight swelling around the erosion. In other cases, the entire central zone of the cornea is edematous, there are several areas of epithelial desquamation.
[ Symptoms of recurrent corneal erosion
An important role in the pathogenesis of recurrent erosion is played by the pathology of the Bowman's membrane. The epithelium does not remain on its surface. The exfoliated section of the epithelium swells up in the form of a bubble and sticks to the mucous membrane of the motionless eyelids at night. As soon as the eyelids open, the epithelium comes off. Under the cover of ointment preparations, epithelialization can occur quite quickly - in 3-7 days, but then, after indefinite intervals, erosions form again. Defects can heal without leaving a trace, but after repeated erosions, thin translucent scars are formed. The etiology of this disease is unknown. Data have been obtained indicating that changes in the Bowman's membrane can be caused by the herpes virus. There is also an assumption that trauma can play a major role in the development of the disease. The influence of hereditary factors cannot be ruled out. Apparently, this disease is polyetiological, and previous trauma and colds play the role of a trigger factor.
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Treatment of recurrent corneal erosion
Treatment is aimed at preventing infection of the eroded surface and improving epithelialization. Instillation of anesthetics is inappropriate, as they promote epithelial sloughing. Ointments containing vitamins and drugs that improve trophic processes (in alternation) are mandatory. The ointment protects the wound surface and exposed nerve endings from drying out and irritation, thereby reducing pain. The ointment base preserves the disinfectants, vitamins and drugs that improve trophism contained in the ointment in the conjunctival cavity and on the cornea for a long period of time. It is a kind of bandage that protects the young epithelium from displacement during blinking movements of the eyelids, prevents it from sticking to the conjunctiva of the eyelids. The last application of the ointment is made daily immediately before bedtime.