Treatment of recurrent corneal erosion and corneal edema with topical osmotic colloidal solution.

Ten patients with recurrent corneal erosion unresponsive to conventional therapy were treated with a topical colloidal solution to obtain epithelial dehydration and lubrication. Nine of the ten patients responded with improved vision and resolution of symptoms. All erosions healed and focal epithelial abnormalities were decreased or reversed. Similar treatment of ten patients with corneal edema due to endothelial decompensation did not significantly reduce symptoms or improve vision, but such a solution may have significant dehydrating effect when edema results solely from epithelial abnormalities. Pachometric studies of the cornea demonstrated no significant change in stromal thickness during therapy. Colloidal hyperosmotic solutions are well tolerated and appear effective in treating recurrent corneal erosion.