thygeson's prognosis

Almost one year ago I developed persistent redness and mild pain in my left eye (right eye has remained fine throughout). I went to an opthalmologist and was diagnosed with Thygesons superficial punctate keratitis and prescribed steriod drops - used 3 times/day for 1 week, then usage tapered off over the following week. Since the first episode, attacks have recurred every 4-6 weeks, with the same prescription given. the last attack (late December) never fully cleared - the steriod drops provided relief but I could feel there was still a problem and it has returned immediately on stopping the steriods. The opthalmologist said there is no better treatment but (i) if I choose to not use steroids there is  a risk of corneal scars (and the condition is very uncomfortable), yet (ii) frequent steroid use has the risk of glaucoma/cataracts. I have never worn contact lenses and am mildly shortsighted with some astigmatism. I understand the condition typically 'runs its course' - months/years.... but am seeking your views on whether any other treatment options might help, what's the risk of not treating it, is there anything I can do to help get rid of it.
thanks very much in advance

[Forum-OD-MP]

answered in comment...

[aimee37]

restasis is probably your only other option.  when you use steroids, ask your ophthalmologist if you can use lotemax (lotoprednol) or even alrex (lower concentration of lotoprednol).  both of them have been clinically shown to be less likely to cause pressure (iop) spikes in long term use than either pred or dexamethasone.

the following is a great page and i agree with most/all of the info posted here:

http://www.fechter.com/Thygesons.htm

this is a rare and as far as i know poorly-understood inflammatory condition. i have never seen one in clinical practice, but have read about cases in the journals.  they all say the same thing as you...self limiting, sometimes scarring, use steroids, etc etc.  

[aimee37]

tspk *****!

[aimee37]

yes, this condition is very hard to live with, people don't really understand how painful it is and how it affects the way your whole body feels when it is inflamed. I had Lasik Surgery 3 years ago and it helped until just a couple of months ago. It is back in full force!

[Laila96]

A related discussion, Thygeson's was started.