Recurrent Corneal Erosion
Recurrent corneal erosion is a condition affecting the outermost layer of corneal cells called the epithelium. The problem is caused when the bottom layer of epithelial cells adhere poorly to the cornea, causing them to slough off easily. The pain and discomfort is often quite intense, and similar to a corneal abrasion. There is usually an underlying disorder that causes recurrent corneal erosions to occur. The most common are: previous corneal injury (corneal abrasion), corneal dystrophy (Map Dot Fingerprint Dystrophy), or corneal disease resulting in recurrent breakdown of the epithelial cells.

Upon awakening, patients often experience severe pain, blurred vision, and light sensitivity when the eyelid pulls the loosened epithelial cells off the cornea. After the cornea heals, the problem recurs as the name implies unless the condition is treated. Recurrent corneal erosion may affect one or both eyes, depending on the underlying cause.

Signs and Symptoms

• Severe pain ( after awakening)
• Blurred vision
• Foreign body sensation
• Dryness and irritation
• Tearing
• Red eye
• Light sensitivity

DIAGNOSIS AND DETECTION
Using a slit lamp microscope, the doctor examines the corneal layers under high magnification. Eye drops containing green dye called fluorescein are usually instilled to stain the areas of missing epithelium, allowing the doctor to evaluate the size and depth of the erosion.


TREATMENT
Salt solution drops or ointment are usually prescribed as the first line of treatment. This medication helps the epithelium to adhere better to Bowman's layer of the cornea. Artificial tears are also recommended to keep the cornea moist.

Those with underlying corneal dystrophy may require additional treatment. This usually includes an in-office procedure where the epithelium is either gently removed, or microscopic "spot welds" are made on the cornea to encourage the epithelial to bond securely to Bowman's layer underneath.

Patients who continue to suffer from recurrent corneal erosions despite the treatments described, may benefit from phototherapeutic keratectomy (PTK). This involves removal of the superficial layer of corneal cells using the Excimer laser to encourage proper healing.

1594 Flatbush Avenue
Brooklyn, NY 11210
(718) 434-0539
HOURS OF OPERATION    
Monday
10:00am - 6:00pm
Tuesday
10:00am - 6:00pm
Wednesday
10:00am - 6:00pm
Thursday
10:00am - 6:00pm
Friday
10:00am - 6:00pm
Saturday
10:00am - 5:00pm
Sunday
Closed
2011 Church Avenue
Brooklyn, NY 11226
(718) 469-3311
HOURS OF OPERATION    
Monday
10:00am - 6:00pm
Tuesday
10:00am - 6:00pm
Wednesday
10:00am - 6:00pm
Thursday
10:00am - 6:00pm
Friday
10:00am - 6:00pm
Saturday
10:00am - 5:00pm
Sunday
Closed
11122 Flatlands Avenue
Brooklyn, NY 11207
(718) 257-9393
HOURS OF OPERATION    
Monday
10:00am - 6:00pm
Tuesday
10:00am - 6:00pm
Wednesday
10:00am - 6:00pm
Thursday
10:00am - 6:00pm
Friday
10:00am - 6:00pm
Saturday
10:00am - 5:00pm
Sunday
Closed
Flatbush Avenue 1594 Flatbush Ave Brooklyn, NY 11210 Phone: (718) 434-0539 Fax: (718) 434-0677
Church Avenue 2011 Church Avenue Brooklyn, NY 11226 Phone: (718) 469-3311 Fax: (718) 928-7262
Flatlands Ave 11122 Flatlands Ave Brooklyn, NY 11207 Phone: (718) 257-9393

Flatbush Optical has three locations in Brooklyn, Serving the neighborhoods of East Flatbush, Prospect Park South, Mapleton, Brownsville, Crown Heights, Flatlands, Mill Basin, Bergen Beach, and Garrison Beach.

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