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PMD

(Pellucid Marginal Degeneration)

Improving Vision in Cases of PMD

Where Advanced Technology Meets Compassionate Care

Pellucid marginal degeneration (PMD), often called pellucid, is a rare and progressive corneal disorder that causes thinning in the peripheral cornea, usually in a band-like pattern. Unlike other corneal conditions, PMD affects the lower cornea, often resulting in irregular astigmatism and significant visual distortions.

At the Raleigh Contact Lens Institute, our doctors have extensive experience managing PMD. We provide advanced diagnostic technology, longer exam times, and personalized one-on-one care. A common treatment for PMD is the use of scleral contact lenses.

Using specialized instruments, we collect up to 240,000 corneal data points to design fully customized scleral lenses. These lenses vault over the cornea, masking areas of thinning and distortion, and restoring clear, stable vision for patients with PMD.

If you have questions on contact lenses for treatment of PMD, we can be reached at (919) 850 5910 or hello@raleighcontactlens.com. More information can also be found below.

Doctor examining patient with pellucid marginal degeneration at slit lamp
Dr. Madison Moss and Dr. Dannielle Richard, PMD Specialty Contact Lens Specialists at The Raleigh Contact Lens Institute

Treatment Options for PMD

While there is no permanent cure for pellucid marginal degeneration (PMD), several treatment options are available to manage symptoms, improve vision, and enhance quality of life.

  • Scleral Contact Lenses - Large-diameter scleral lenses vault over the cornea, creating a smooth optical surface that compensates for the irregular shape caused by PMD.
  • Rigid Gas Permeable (RGP) Lenses - In some cases, RGP lenses may improve vision, though they are often less effective in advanced stages of PMD.
  • Corneal Cross-Linking - When PMD is progressing, cross-linking can help strengthen the cornea and reduce the risk of further thinning.
  • Intacs - Intracorneal ring segments can be implanted to reshape and stabilize the cornea, offering improved vision for selected patients.
  • Corneal Transplant -In severe cases where other treatments fail, a corneal transplant (keratoplasty) may be necessary to restore vision.

Why Choose the Raleigh Contact Lens Institute for Optimizing Vision with PMD?

The Team

The Team

The team at the 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

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

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

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

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

Affordability

We keep our overhead costs low and offer very competitive prices as a result. We have monthly payment options available and also accept Cherry™, HSA, & FSA.

Dr. Madison Moss and Dr. Dannielle Richard at The Raleigh Contact Lens Institute

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 PMD. 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 PMD, 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 the 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.

If you have questions on achieving clear vision with PMD, we can be reached at (919) 850 5910 or hello@raleighcontactlens.com.