PROSE

*This article is a guideline only and not to be construed as medical advice. Always contact your eye care doctor with questions and for treatment options. Ocular Graft-versus-Host Disease (GVHD) is a complex condition that can significantly impact the eyes of individuals who have undergone hematopoietic stem cell transplantation. This comprehensive guide aims to provide valuable insights into ocular GVHD, covering its causes, symptoms, diagnosis, and management. What is Ocular GVHD?  Ocular GVHD is a manifestation of graft-versus-host disease, a common complication that arises after stem cell or bone marrow transplantation. In this condition, the donor's immune cells attack the recipient's tissues, leading to inflammation and damage in various organs, including the eyes. Causes and Risk Factors  Understanding the causes and risk factors of ocular GVHD is crucial for both patients and healthcare professionals. The primary trigger is the transplantation process itself, where the immune cells from the donor recognize the recipient's tissues as foreign and initiate an immune response. Other risk factors include the type of transplant, age, and the presence of pre-existing ocular conditions. Symptoms of Ocular GVHD  Recognizing the symptoms of ocular GVHD is vital for early intervention. Common symptoms include dry eyes, redness, light sensitivity, blurred vision, pain, and a gritty or burning sensation. Patients may also experience excessive tearing or mucous discharge. Diagnosis  Accurate diagnosis is essential for effective management. Ophthalmologists play a key role in diagnosing ocular GVHD by conducting a thorough eye examination, assessing symptoms, and utilizing advanced diagnostic tools such as tear [...]

*This article is a guideline only and not to be construed as medical advice. Always contact your eye care doctor with questions and for treatment options. Ocular Graft-versus-Host Disease (GVHD) is a complex and challenging condition that arises as a complication of allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation. This condition affects the eyes, leading to a range of symptoms that can significantly impact the quality of life of affected individuals. In this article, we delve into the intricate details of ocular GVHD and its profound implications on the well-being of patients. Understanding Ocular GVHD  Ocular GVHD occurs when donor immune cells recognize the recipient's tissues as foreign and mount an attack. This immune response targets the ocular surface, resulting in inflammation, damage to the cornea, and a host of ocular symptoms. Common symptoms include dry eyes, blurred vision, light sensitivity, and chronic eye discomfort. Quality of Life Impact  Persistent Discomfort: Ocular GVHD is often accompanied by persistent discomfort, ranging from a gritty sensation to a burning or stabbing pain. These symptoms can significantly reduce an individual's overall comfort and well-being, impacting daily activities and productivity. Visual Impairment: The condition can lead to visual impairment, making it challenging for patients to perform routine tasks such as reading, driving, or using digital devices. The resulting dependency on others for assistance can contribute to feelings of frustration and loss of independence. Emotional Toll: Coping with chronic ocular symptoms can take a toll on an individual's mental health. The emotional burden of dealing with a [...]

*This article is a guideline only and not to be construed as medical advice. Always contact your eye care doctor with questions and for treatment options. Ocular Graft-versus-Host Disease (GVHD) is a challenging condition that affects the eyes of individuals who have undergone allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation. It occurs when transplanted immune cells recognize the recipient's tissues as foreign and attack them. Managing ocular GVHD requires a multifaceted approach to alleviate symptoms and improve overall eye health. In this article, we'll explore effective tips and strategies for patients grappling with this condition. Understanding Ocular GVHD  Before delving into management strategies, it's essential to comprehend the symptoms associated with ocular GVHD. Common signs include dry eyes, redness, light sensitivity, blurred vision, pain, and a gritty or burning sensation. The severity of these symptoms can vary, making personalized management crucial for each patient. Regular Eye Exams Routine eye examinations play a pivotal role in managing ocular GVHD. Patients should schedule regular appointments with their ophthalmologist to monitor any changes in their eye health. Early detection of complications can lead to more effective interventions, minimizing potential damage. Lubricating Eye Drops One of the primary complaints in ocular GVHD patients is dry eyes. Lubricating eye drops, artificial tears, and gels can provide relief by moisturizing the eyes and alleviating discomfort. Patients should use preservative-free formulations to prevent irritation. Prescription Medications For more severe cases, ophthalmologists may prescribe medications such as cyclosporine eye drops or corticosteroids to manage inflammation and immune responses. These medications [...]

*This article is a guideline only and not to be construed as medical advice. Always contact your eye care doctor with questions and for treatment options. Ocular Graft-versus-Host Disease (GVHD) poses unique challenges when it affects pediatric patients. This condition arises as a complication of allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation, where the donor's immune cells attack the recipient's tissues, including the eyes. Managing ocular GVHD in children requires a specialized approach due to their distinct needs and considerations. In this blog post, we'll explore the challenges associated with ocular GVHD in pediatric patients and discuss crucial considerations for effective management. Understanding Ocular GVHD Ocular GVHD manifests as a chronic, immune-mediated disorder affecting the ocular surface. In pediatric cases, it presents an added layer of complexity, as children may have difficulty expressing their symptoms, making early diagnosis and intervention challenging. Challenges in Pediatric Cases  Communication Barriers: Children may struggle to articulate their symptoms or discomfort, making it crucial for healthcare providers to adopt a comprehensive approach that involves parents, caregivers, and age-appropriate communication techniques. Symptom Recognition: Ocular GVHD symptoms can overlap with other eye conditions, complicating diagnosis. Redness, dryness, light sensitivity, and blurred vision may be attributed to various factors, necessitating a keen eye for subtle signs. Treatment Compliance: Pediatric patients may find it challenging to adhere to complex treatment regimens. Balancing the efficacy of therapies with their impact on a child's daily life is vital for long-term success. Considerations for Pediatric Ocular GVHD Management Multidisciplinary Approach: Collaboration between pediatricians, ophthalmologists, [...]

*This article is a guideline only and not to be construed as medical advice. Always contact your eye care doctor with questions and for treatment options. Ocular Graft-versus-Host Disease (GVHD) is a serious condition that can affect individuals who have undergone allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation. While the disease primarily targets the eyes, its symptoms can often go unnoticed in the early stages. In this blog post, we'll delve into the crucial information you need to recognize the warning signs of ocular GVHD and seek timely medical intervention. Understanding Ocular GVHD  Ocular GVHD occurs when transplanted immune cells attack the recipient's eye tissues, leading to inflammation and damage. Recognizing the symptoms early on is vital for effective management and prevention of complications. Symptoms and Warning Signs of Ocular GVHD  Dry Eyes: Ocular GVHD often manifests as severe dry eyes, causing discomfort and blurred vision. Redness, Irritation, and Eye Pain: Persistent redness, irritation, and pain may be potential indicators of ocular GVHD. Light Sensitivity: Increased sensitivity to light can be an overlooked symptom of ocular GVHD. Blurred Vision: If you notice sudden or gradual blurred vision, it's crucial to consider ocular GVHD as a possible cause. Treatment and Management  Regular Eye Exams: Routine eye exams are essential for early detection; make them a priority, especially if you're at risk. Seek advice from ophthalmologists experienced in managing ocular GVHD for a comprehensive evaluation. Immunosuppressive Therapy: Understand how immunosuppressive medications can help control the immune response and minimize eye damage. Lifestyle Modifications: Lifestyle [...]

In 2024, we surveyed 2,000 PROSE patients with ocular surface disease. The survey respondents reported high success rates, however, 62% of respondents reported they waited 3 or more years for a PROSE referral. Given the high success rate of PROSE, we hope to improve awareness of PROSE treatment earlier in individuals’ eye care journeys, both for patients and their referring specialists. Results Percent of survey respondents who reported that their eye health and vision improved after getting PROSE: Overall = 95% Dry eye = 87% Keratoconus = 98% Corneal transplant/scarring = 93% Exposure = 77% Ocular GVHD = 97% Sjögren’s: = 100% SJS/TENS = 100% Post-LASIK = 100% Percent of survey respondents who reported that their quality of life improved after getting PROSE: Overall = 96% Dry eye = 87% Keratoconus = 98% Corneal transplant/scarring = 95% Exposure = 92% Ocular GVHD = 97% Sjögren’s: = 100% SJS/TENS = 100% Post-LASIK = 100%