Diffuse Lamellar Keratitis (DLK) is a unique and relatively rare post-procedure condition following LASIK surgery. DLK only occurs in approximately 1% of the complication cases. It is unknown what causes DLK. A number of names, including Sands of the Sahara, have been used to describe this condition. It occurs when accumulation of inflammatory cells develop under the corneal flap. This condition usually occurs about one to three days after LASIK surgery. In most cases, patients do not experience any noticeable symptoms related to DLK. Because of this, most cases of DLK can only be detected with a doctor’s exam.
Treating DLK Early
When caught early, DLK is an easily treatable condition. Patients should be aware, however, that while the majority of cases clear up within the first 24 to 48 hours, it could take several weeks until the condition completely subsides. When DLK is detected and treated early, the condition is most often treated without any significant visual loss. This is one more reason why it is imperative that all LASIK patients maintain their surgeon’s recommended post-procedure follow-up examination schedule and why attending your one day postoperative appointment is very important.
Read a post-LASIK DLK case study.
