Overview
Epithelial recurrent erosion dystrophy (ERED) is a rare genetic eye condition that affects the outermost layer of the cornea, which is the clear front surface of the eye. In this condition, the top layer of corneal cells (the epithelium) does not stick properly to the layers beneath it. This causes the epithelium to repeatedly break down or peel away, leading to painful episodes known as recurrent corneal erosions. These episodes often happen suddenly, frequently upon waking in the morning, and can cause sharp eye pain, tearing, light sensitivity, and blurred vision. The condition typically affects both eyes and tends to begin in childhood or early adulthood. Epithelial recurrent erosion dystrophy is also sometimes referred to as Franceschetti corneal dystrophy or Dystrophia Smolandiensis. It is classified among the corneal dystrophies, a group of inherited conditions that cause abnormal material to build up in the cornea or affect its structure. Unlike some other corneal dystrophies, ERED primarily involves the epithelial layer without significant deposits in deeper corneal layers. Treatment is mainly focused on managing symptoms and preventing erosion episodes. This includes the use of lubricating eye drops and ointments, especially at bedtime, to keep the corneal surface moist and reduce the chance of the epithelium tearing off during sleep. In more severe or frequent cases, procedures such as anterior stromal puncture, phototherapeutic keratectomy (PTK) using a laser, or placement of a bandage contact lens may be recommended. While the condition is not life-threatening, it can significantly affect quality of life due to recurrent pain and visual disturbance.
Also known as:
Key symptoms:
Sudden sharp eye pain, especially upon wakingTearing or watery eyesSensitivity to light (photophobia)Blurred or hazy vision during erosion episodesFeeling like something is stuck in the eye (foreign body sensation)Redness of the eyeRecurrent episodes of corneal erosionSymptoms affecting both eyesEpisodes triggered by dry conditions or upon opening eyes in the morningMild to moderate visual impairment between episodes in some cases
Clinical phenotype terms (11)— hover any for plain English
Autosomal dominant
Passed on from just one parent; each child has about a 50% chance of inheriting it
Variable
Can begin at different ages, from infancy through adulthood
FDA & Trial Timeline
1 eventOcuflox Ophthalmic Solution: FDA approved
Treatment of bacterial corneal ulcers.
Data sourced from FDA regulatory filings and ClinicalTrials.gov. Updated periodically.
Treatments
1 availableOcuflox Ophthalmic Solution
Treatment of bacterial corneal ulcers.
Clinical Trials
View all trials with filters →No actively recruiting trials found for Epithelial recurrent erosion dystrophy at this time.
New trials open frequently. Follow this disease to get notified.
Specialists
View all specialists →No specialists are currently listed for Epithelial recurrent erosion dystrophy.
Treatment Centers
8 centersBaylor College of Medicine Rare Disease Center ↗
Baylor College of Medicine
📍 Houston, TX
🏥 NORDStanford Medicine Rare Disease Center ↗
Stanford Medicine
📍 Stanford, CA
🔬 UDNNIH Clinical Center Undiagnosed Diseases Program ↗
National Institutes of Health
📍 Bethesda, MD
🔬 UDNUCLA UDN Clinical Site ↗
UCLA Health
📍 Los Angeles, CA
🔬 UDNBaylor College of Medicine UDN Clinical Site ↗
Baylor College of Medicine
📍 Houston, TX
🔬 UDNHarvard/MGH UDN Clinical Site ↗
Massachusetts General Hospital
📍 Boston, MA
🏥 NORDMayo Clinic Center for Individualized Medicine ↗
Mayo Clinic
📍 Rochester, MN
👤 Mayo Clinic Center for Individualized Medicine
🏥 NORDUCLA Rare Disease Day Program ↗
UCLA Health
📍 Los Angeles, CA
Travel Grants
No travel grants are currently matched to Epithelial recurrent erosion dystrophy.
Community
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Caregiver Resources
NORD Caregiver Resources
Support, advocacy, and financial assistance for caregivers of rare disease patients.
Mental Health Support
Rare disease caregiving can be isolating. Connect with counseling and peer support.
Family & Caregiver Grants
Financial assistance programs specifically for caregivers of rare disease patients.
Social Security Disability
Learn how rare disease patients may qualify for SSDI/SSI benefits.
Questions for your doctor
Bring these to your next appointment
- Q1.How often should I expect erosion episodes, and is there anything I can do to reduce their frequency?,What is the best nighttime routine to protect my corneas while I sleep?,Should I consider a procedure like phototherapeutic keratectomy, and what are the risks and benefits?,Are there specific environmental factors I should avoid, such as dry air or fans?,Should my family members be examined or genetically tested for this condition?,What should I do if I suspect an erosion is happening — when should I seek emergency care?,Will this condition affect my long-term vision, and how often should I have my eyes checked?
Common questions about Epithelial recurrent erosion dystrophy
What is Epithelial recurrent erosion dystrophy?
Epithelial recurrent erosion dystrophy (ERED) is a rare genetic eye condition that affects the outermost layer of the cornea, which is the clear front surface of the eye. In this condition, the top layer of corneal cells (the epithelium) does not stick properly to the layers beneath it. This causes the epithelium to repeatedly break down or peel away, leading to painful episodes known as recurrent corneal erosions. These episodes often happen suddenly, frequently upon waking in the morning, and can cause sharp eye pain, tearing, light sensitivity, and blurred vision. The condition typically af
How is Epithelial recurrent erosion dystrophy inherited?
Epithelial recurrent erosion dystrophy follows a autosomal dominant inheritance pattern. Genetic counseling can help families understand recurrence risk and testing options.
What treatment and support options exist for Epithelial recurrent erosion dystrophy?
1 patient support program are currently tracked on UniteRare for Epithelial recurrent erosion dystrophy. See the treatments and support programs sections for copay assistance, eligibility, and contact details.