A Review of Limbal Stem Cell Deficiency

Abstract

Limbal stem cell deficiency (LSCD) can be secondary to multiple etiologies including contact lens wear, chemical or thermal trauma, and systemic disease, any of which can result in the reduction of the number of stem cells or their decreased functionality. Primary LSCD is seen with a variety of congenital anterior segment disorders. Often LSCD can be stabilized and timely diagnosis is the key. The use of topical corticosteroids and artificial tear lubricants, along with treatment of any underlying conditions, and discontinuation of contact lenses are important initial treatment strategies. Advance treatments include amniotic membranes, limbal stem cell transplantation and keratoprostheses.

Mini-Conjunctival Limbal Autograft (Mini-CLAU) Using Platelet-Rich Plasma Eye Drops (E-PRP): A Case Series

“…There are different established methods for ocular surface reconstruction in unilateral total LSCD, including classic CLAU, ex vivo CLET, and SLET. [7][8][9][10] In classic CLAU, two 60-degree limbal blocks harvested from the healthy fellow eye are transplanted to the diseased eye. This technique may compromise the healthy eye.…”

“…5,6 Numerous surgical treatment modalities are available for the management of total LSCD, which can be selected based on laterality. 7 The classic therapeutic options for unilateral total LSCD are conjunctival limbal autograft (CLAU), cultivated limbal epithelial transplantation (CLET), and simple limbal epithelial transplantation (SLET). [8][9][10] The main advantage of CLET over CLAU is that CLET requires less tissue for transplantation, thus potentially reducing the risk of iatrogenic LSCD in the healthy fellow eye.…”