Graft vs. Host Disease
A Promising Solution for Superior Vision and Comfort for Those Suffering From GVHD
Improving Vision in Cases of GVHD
- Where Advanced Technology Meets Compassionate Care
Graft vs. host disease (GVHD) is a condition that can occur after an allogeneic stem cell or bone marrow transplant. In GVHD, the transplanted cells (graft) recognize the recipient’s body (host) as foreign, leading to an immune response that affects various organs, including the eyes.
Raleigh Contact Lens Institute features advanced technology, longer than normal exam slots, and the technical expertise required to treat patients with GVHD. Both dry eye treatment methods and specialty contact lenses can possibly be used in order to improve ocular health, and provide the most comfort possible.
We utilize advanced and specialized technology which collects up to 240,000 unique data points in order to design a fully customized scleral contact lens. Customized scleral contact lenses work well in the case of GVHD, because the lens vaults entirely over the cornea without adding any pressure to it, while allowing the cornea to remain hydrated for ultimate healing and comfort.
Optimizing Vision for Individuals With GVHD
Managing graft vs. host disease involves a multidisciplinary approach aimed at alleviating symptoms, reducing inflammation, and improving the patient’s overall quality of life.
- Lubricating Eye Drops – Artificial tears and lubricating eye drops can help relieve dryness and maintain moisture on the ocular surface
- Immunosuppressive Medications – Corticosteroids and other immunosuppressive drugs may be prescribed to modulate the immune response and reduce inflammation
- Systemic Therapies – Comprehensive treatment plans may include systemic therapies to address GVHD affecting multiple organs
- Prosthetic Devices – Prosthetic devices, such as moisture-chamber glasses, can create a more humid environment around the eyes
- Scleral Lenses – Specialty contact lenses, specifically scleral lenses, have emerged as a promising solution for managing ocular GVHD symptoms, providing constant hydration to the eye and protection from the external environment
- Moisture Retention – Scleral lenses vault over the cornea, creating a reservoir of saline solution that provides continuous moisture, addressing dryness associated with GVHD
- Reduced Friction – The smooth surface of scleral lenses minimizes friction and irritation, offering relief from discomfort caused by dry eyes
- Protection – Scleral lenses act as a protective barrier, shielding the cornea from environmental factors and reducing the risk of further damage
- A Smooth Surface – Scleral lenses provide stable visual correction, compensating for irregularities on the corneal surface caused by GVHD. This results in superior vision compared to other available vision correction options
Why Choose Raleigh Contact Lens Institute
for Optimizing Vision with GVHD?
The Team
The team at Raleigh Contact Lens Institute are experts in correcting vision for patients where crisp vision has proven elusive. What some may call “difficult to fit” is our typical patient.
Advanced Technology
Our office is one of a few practices in the country that is equipped with the Pentacam AXL Wave and Optovue Solix OCT, which greatly aid in the design of complex custom specialty contacts.
Unlimited Answers
We allow for enough time for thorough comprehensive exams, and plenty of time for answering questions. No rushing in and out here.
We Focus on Unique Eyes
Our office is equipped to offer advanced specialty contact lenses to individuals who require tailored and custom-designed solutions.
Access to the Doctor
Our doctors are available to answer questions you have after your exam, and will make sure you have the information needed in order to ensure the best possible outcome.
Affordability
We keep our overhead costs low and offer very competitive prices as a result. We have monthly payment options available and also accept CareCredit™, HSA, & FSA.
Summary
Our doctors are nationally recognized for their expertise in utilizing specialty contact lenses, and one use of specialty contact lenses is the management of vision in individuals with GVHD. Our doctors have focused their career on the latest applications and options for fitting specialty contact lenses and they regularly present to other doctors at both local and national meetings.
There are options for managing vision in cases of GVHD, including scleral contacts, RGP contacts, and cross-linking. During an initial comprehensive exam, the doctor will discuss all available options. One of the benefits of visiting Raleigh Contact Lens Institute is the amount of one-on-one time with the doctor, which allows for plenty of time to ask questions and evaluate all options.