Recurrent Corneal Erosions

Recurrent corneal erosion (RCE) typically occurs in eyes that have had previous abrading injuries. Patients with RCE typically experience sudden onset of eye pain, usually on first awakening. Associated symptoms include redness, photophobia, blurred vision, and tearing. The differential diagnosis of RCE must include herpes simplex virus (HSV) epithelial keratitis, exposure keratopathy, neurotrophic keratitis, conjunctival foreign body, dry eye disease (DED), infectious keratitis, and ocular graft-versus-host disease (GVHD). Treatment of RCE typically progresses in a stepwise fashion and can be divided into medical and surgical options. With appropriate treatment, patients have a high likelihood of achieving long-term relief.