Diffuse lamellar keratitis (DLK) or the Sands of Sahara syndrome is a relatively new syndrome, first described in 1998.1 DLK is a self-perpetuating sterile inflammation of the cornea characterized by the appearance of a diffuse, multifocal, polymorphonuclear (PMN) infiltration in the flap interface. It may be associated with redness, tearing, pain, photophobia, and a decline in central vision. DLK is usually noted within the first 5 days after LASIK surgery.2–5 However, it may occur after any intervention in which a lamellar incision has created an interface through the stromal tissue.
Diffuse lamellar keratitis (DLK) or the Sands of Sahara syndrome is a relatively new syndrome, first described in 1998.1 DLK is a self-perpetuating sterile inflammation of the cornea characterized by the appearance of a diffuse, multifocal, polymorphonuclear (PMN) infiltration in the flap interface. It may be associated with redness, tearing, pain, photophobia, and a decline in central vision. DLK is usually noted within the first 5 days after LASIK surgery.2–5 However, it may occur after any intervention in which a lamellar incision has created an interface through the stromal tissue.