What is Salzmann’s Nodular Degeneration?

Salzmann’s Nodular Degeneration is a condition where a “callus” like nodule forms on the front surface of the cornea.  It generally forms in both eyes usually in an asymmetric fashion.

Symptoms

Initially patients may notice a feeling like there is something in their eye, or “foreign body sensation” due to the irregular wetting of the cornea in the area of the salzmann’s nodule.  With increasing size of the nodule the foreign body sensation will increase and vision will begin to be affected.  Salzmann’s nodules cause irregular astigmatism resulting in blurred vision.

Diagnosis

Diagnosis usually occurs with a slit lamp examination of the cornea during an eye examination. In its earliest of stages, Salzmann’s nodules can be subtle. Frequent prescription changes and the inability to have vision corrected to 20/20 sharp helps to alert your doctor to rule out salzmann’s formation.  Corneal Topography, which measures the corneal shape, can aid in the diagnosis showing characteristic irregular astigmatism.

Treatment

Treatment of the salzmann’s nodule involves removal of the nodule with a superficial keratectomy procedure.  A superficial keratectomy involves removal of the epithelium or top “skin” layer of the cornea. Following healing from the procedure, ongoing treatment of contributing eye conditions is required to prevent recurrence. These treatments are aimed at controlling chronic irritation of the eye such as dry eye, blepharitis and meibomian gland dysfunction.