pellucid marginal degeneration bellingham

Understanding Pellucid Marginal Degeneration: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment Options

Pellucid marginal degeneration (PMD) is a rare, non-inflammatory ectatic disorder of the inferior peripheral cornea characterized by a crescent-shaped band of inferior corneal thinning. This condition affects the eyes and can significantly impact an individual's quality of life. In this article, we will discuss the causes, symptoms, and treatment options for PMD.

Causes of Pellucid Marginal Degeneration

The exact cause of PMD is still unknown, but it is believed to be related to a combination of genetic and environmental factors. Research suggests that PMD may be caused by an imbalance in the corneal stroma, leading to thinning and weakening of the cornea.

Symptoms of Pellucid Marginal Degeneration

Individuals with PMD typically experience long-standing poor visual acuity due to high irregular against-the-rule astigmatism. This condition is characterized by a classical 'butterfly' pattern on corneal topography, demonstrating a large amount of against-the-rule astigmatism that makes contact lens fitting difficult. Patients may also experience eye irritation, dryness, and sensitivity to light.

Treatment Options for Pellucid Marginal Degeneration

Currently, there is no cure for PMD, but various treatment options are available to manage the condition. Non-surgical management includes spectacles and different groups of contact lenses. However, these procedures lose their effectiveness as the disease progresses. Surgical procedures such as penetrating keratoplasty, deep anterior lamellar keratoplasty, crescentic wedge resection, thermokeratoplasty, epikeratoplasty, and crescentic lamellar keratoplasty have been proposed to improve visual outcomes.

Intracorneal Ring Segments (ICRS) for Pellucid Marginal Degeneration

Researchers have proposed the use of intracorneal ring segments (ICRS) as a potential treatment option for PMD. ICRS involves inserting rings into the cornea to reshape its shape and improve vision. However, this technique is irreversible and requires a long period of rehabilitation with unpredictable visual results.

Pellucid marginal degeneration is a complex condition that affects the eyes and can significantly impact an individual's quality of life. While there is currently no cure for PMD, various treatment options are available to manage the condition. Patients with PMD should consult with an eye care professional to determine the best course of treatment for their specific condition.

Pellucid marginal degeneration bellingham