Date of last review: Due to be updated

Differential diagnosis

  • Exposure keratopathy
  • Other corneal dystrophies with epithelial manifestations
  • Contact lens-related epithelial conditions

Possible management by Optometrist

Treatment

  • Regular ocular lubrication (drops for use during the day, unmedicated ointment for use at bedtime)
    • Should be continued for at least 3 months from date of last recurrence
  • Antibiotic ointment
    • Ask if allergic to Chloramphenicol
    • If not, supply Chloramphenicol 1% eye ointment 3 times daily for 5 days
    • If allergic to Chloramphenicol, or pregnant, supply Fusidic acid 1% liquid gel twice a day for 5 days
  • Cyclopentolate 1% 3 times daily for 5 days

Advice

  • Review at monthly intervals for three months.
  • Advise patient to return/seek further help if symptoms persist

Management Category

  • Normally no referral
  • If persistent or if defect large and unstable routine referral

Possible management by Ophthalmologist

  • As above
  • Excimer laser photo-therapeutic keratectomy
  • ‘Alcohol delamination’