In a recent news release, Moorfields Eye Hospital Dubai outlines how they effectively treated a young girl for Stevens-Johnson syndrome, a rare and chronic disease that affects the eyes.
About Stevens-Johnson Syndrome (SJS)
Stevens-Johnson syndrome (SJS) is a rare and serious disorder that can affect a person’s skin, mucous membrane, genitals, and eyes. SJS is considered to be a medical emergency and needs fast treatment. It can be triggered by some medications and infections, and, in the early stages, it may cause flu-like symptoms and a red or purple rash that blisters. Severe cases can lead to visual impairment and blindness. You can read more about the condition by clicking here.
A Patient at Moorfields Dubai
Moorfields Eye Hospital Dubai recently treated an 11-year-old girl from Pakistan who was diagnosed with SJS. When she arrived at the hospital, her eyes were extremely sensitive to light (photophobia), and she couldn’t open them. Previous treatments hadn’t substantially helped her.
Her Treatment Plan
The doctors at Moorfields Dubai changed her medicines; they aimed to reduce her side-effects and improve the condition of the surface of her eye (ocular surface). She was given autologous serum (made from her blood plasma), underwent tear duct-blocking surgery, and electrolysis, among other treatments. As a result, she showed a large improvement in the surface of her eyes.
Once her condition had improved enough, the hospital was able to give her a special type of contact lens (called a scleral contact lens), designed to limit pain and light sensitivity. These lenses allow liquid to cover the cornea underneath the lens, which helps to prevent dry eyes.
The Result
Moorfields Dubai reports that, after these treatments, the girl could open her eyes without pain again, and had less light sensitivity than before. Her father, who had come with her to the hospital, said that the family is pleased with the results.
