Recurrent corneal erosion (RCES)

An intermittent, recurrent condition where the corneal surface breaks and tears causing sudden onset pain, discomfort and a watery eye.

It usually occurs upon waking and is due to an area of weak corneal epithelium (surface layer of cells) that is disturbed by the eyelid. It is often following an injury, such as a finger-poke, where the surface cells heal within 24-48hrs but do not form firm adhesions to the deeper layers of the cornea making the area prone to breaking down and recurring.

Treatment involves surface excimer laser (PTK or phototherapeutic keratectomy) or alcohol delamination (see treatments). The aim of both is to remove the unhealthy epithelium and weak surface bonds allowing the new epithelium to adhere to the deeper corneal layers, breaking the recurrent cycle and symptoms.