Graft-versus-host disease (GVHD) is a possible complication after a bone marrow or stem cell transplant, and one of its most difficult effects is severe, chronic dry eye. For patients whose ocular surface disease resists every drop and ointment, scleral lenses can be a turning point.
How GVHD affects the eyes
In ocular GVHD, transplanted immune cells attack the tear-producing tissues, leaving the eye dangerously dry. The surface can become inflamed, painful, and prone to damage. Everyday activities like reading, screens, and even keeping the eyes open can become exhausting.
Why scleral lenses help so much
Scleral lenses are widely used in the management of severe ocular surface disease precisely because they do what drops cannot: maintain a continuous, protective bath of moisture over the cornea for hours at a time. That reservoir:
- Shields a fragile, inflamed surface from air and friction
- Hydrates the cornea continuously, reducing pain and grittiness
- Supports the healing environment of the ocular surface
- Restores clearer, more comfortable vision
For many GVHD patients, sclerals mean the difference between suffering through the day and functioning comfortably.
Coordinated, gentle care
GVHD eyes are delicate and need close monitoring. Scleral lens wear is typically one part of a broader plan that includes your transplant and eye-care teams. The fitting must be careful and unhurried, with attention to lens hygiene and ocular surface health at every visit.
You're not out of options
If you've been told your dry eye is "as good as it's going to get," a scleral lens evaluation may prove otherwise. Dr. Salley fits scleral lenses for complex ocular surface disease at CFE Memphis and coordinates with your specialists.
Struggling with GVHD-related dry eye? Request a specialty dry eye consult at CFE Memphis.