Amniotic Membrane Transplant/Conjunctivochlasis & Eye Cysts

[LHig]

Need second opinion:  My story (quick version):  Have been suffering from conjunctivochalsis for 4.5 yrs. Now my cornea is also affected: Keratoconus and Coguns Corneal Dystrophy.  Recently a syst has formed in the corner of each eye.  Can't tell if it has added to already existing discomfort. Have beenn Restasis, Alrex , Pataday and now Muro ointment.  I see a well known Corneaologist and he wants me to have the Amniotic Membrane Transplant especially now that I have developed the eye cysts.  I don't know what to do -- wld like other opinions on this procedure and its history on long term resolution of Conjunctivochalsis.  Also, are my cornea issues related to the extended use of Restasis? Alrex & Pataday?

[LHig]

While I thank you for your response, I don't feel your recommendation of discontinuing my meds is a route that I want to entertain at this point at least, as I think they are allowing me a level of "dis"comfort that is tolerable at this time....unless, of course, it is very clear that they are definitely the culprits of my recent diagnosis (keratoconus & Cogan's). However, I guess that's the Catch22....  And, if I do (stop meds), will it reverse the damage?  I already questioned my Dr., but didn't get a definitive answer.  I was also hoping that you would comment on 1) the eye cysts (looks like a "bubble" in the corner of my eye) and 2) the Aminotic Membrain Transplant surgery to help w/the Chalasis.  

[Sandy Feldman, MD, MS]

Dear LHig,

You bring up some good questions regarding your corneal surface.  You now have three diseases, conjunctivochalasis, keratoconus and Cogan’s corneal dystrophy.  I would recommend that you seek the care of an additional corneal specialist or speak to the one you saw, to determine whether other options may help.   As I am not familiar with your entire course, it is difficult to assess whether medications may be causative.  Of course, discontinuation of the medications should help the surface, if they are the cause.

Dr. Feldman

Sandy T. Feldman, M.D., M.S.
ClearView Eye and Laser Medical Center
San Diego, California