How common is DLK after LASIK?
The incidence of DLK is highly variable. One report noted an incidence of approximately 1 in 500.74 Some high volume LASIK surgeons have reported never seeing a case in their own practice. We have seen only two mild cases in 3000 LASIK procedures.
When does DLK appear?
The characteristic clinical presentation in DLK develops 1 to 2 days following refractive surgery and typically resolves 5-8 days after the initiation of appropriate therapy.
What causes DLK after LASIK?
Diffuse lamellar keratitis (DLK) is a relatively infrequent complication of LASIK [1]. It may occur after any surgical procedure in which a corneal lamellar incision has created an interface through the stromal tissue.
Can epithelial ingrowth go away by itself?
Conclusions: Epithelial ingrowth can occur after a long interval after primary LASIK. In our case, the epithelial cells disappeared without any surgical intervention over a period of 6 months.
Is DLK curable?
In mild cases, DLK rarely affects vision and is easily treatable. Left untreated, it can cause permanent damage, including reduction in visual acuity, scarring and stromal melt. A very severe case of DLK.
What does DLK mean?
DLK
| Acronym | Definition |
|---|---|
| DLK | De Lyckliga Kompisarna (Swedish: The Happy Friends; Swedish punk band; est. 1989) |
| DLK | Democratic League of Kosovo (political party) |
| DLK | Double-lined Kraft (recycled paper) |
| DLK | Dream Like Kings Dress Like Kings (clothing line) |
How common is DLK?
Boland says. Severe, vision-threatening DLK may occur in one in 5,000 cases, while very mild cases may be as frequent as one in 50 cases. In mild cases, DLK rarely affects vision and is easily treatable. Left untreated, it can cause permanent damage, including reduction in visual acuity, scarring and stromal melt.
What causes epithelial ingrowth?
Possible causes: implantation of epithelial cells during surgery, poor-quality blade, improper repositioning of the flap or gap between stromal bed and flap. Complication: irregular astigmatism, flap melting.
How do you treat epithelial cells?
Treatment will depend on the cause of the abnormal number of epithelial cells. Most UTIs are bacterial and can be treated with an antibiotic. Drinking more water can also speed healing. For viral UTIs, doctors may prescribe medication called antivirals.
Can you get DLK after PRK?
In fact, it probably has nothing to do with the flap itself, but something toxic that gets on the cornea. I have had two cases of CTK following photorefractive keratectomy. That’s another reason I believe it is another entity than DLK. You never get DLK after PRK.”
What is epithelial growth?
Contributor: Jesse Vislisel, MD. Epithelial ingrowth occurs when the corneal epithelial cells grow within the lamellar interface beneath the LASIK flap. This may result in an inflammatory response, corneal edema, irregular astigmatism, or melting of the LASIK flap.
How long does DLK take to resolve after LASIK?
DLK resolved by a mean of 4.86 weeks for all eyes. Late-onset DLK can present at any time following LASIK with a wide range of inciting factors causing a nonspecific (and likely immune-related) inflammatory reaction.
What kind of inflammation can you get after LASIK?
One of the most common complications of LASIK is inflammation known as diffuse lamellar keratitis (DLK) or Sands of the Sahara. Diffuse lamellar keratitis is characterized by a diffuse white, granular infiltrate occurring within a few days after LASIK.
What are the signs and symptoms of DLK?
DLK is a potentially serious, sight-threatening complication. It may be associated with redness, sensitivity to light, tearing, pain, and reduced vision. DLK is classified by four stages depending on the severity and location of the inflammation.