Adjunct Use of Therapeutic Scleral Lens for Exposure Keratopathy after Severe Chemical Burn

Abstract

Severe chemical burns can damage the periocular area causing exposure keratopathy and resulting in ocular pain, foreign body sensation, epiphora, photophobia, and vision loss. A custom fit large diameter therapeutic scleral lens can protect the ocular surface by preventing desiccation and providing immediate improvement in comfort. This case describes the management of a patient with extensive chemical burn with complete lid loss and exposure keratopathy who has maintained excellent visual acuity and comfort with therapeutic scleral lens use.