Inflammation from Prosthesis
AUG 31, 2015
Question:
I was born with congenital cataract and I have not had vision in that eye since birth. I’ve been using an eye prosthetic for the last 20 years. Last year I have been getting a lot of redness in that eye (my left), plus I’m getting crust all day long especially if the eye is dry. Should I see an ophthalmologist or an optometrist? I’m scared that my right eye will be infected now—what should I do?
Answer:
It is not uncommon to have irritations, crusting and discharge with the use of an ocular prosthesis. This may not be an infection but an inflammatory reaction to the prosthesis. It may also be a condition of the eyelids such as blepharitis. You should see an ophthalmologist who will determine the cause of the symptoms and start treatment. An ill-fitting or an old prosthesis with scratches and deposits on it can cause these symptoms as well. The ocularist who fit your prosthesis should also evaluate you for a new fitting or a modification or polishing of the existing prosthesis.