Related Experiment Videos
Peripheral keratitis following laser in situ keratomileusis
William J Lahners1, David R Hardten, Richard L Lindstrom
1Center For Sight, Sarasota, FL 34238, USA. wjlahners@centerforsight.net
Journal of Refractive Surgery (Thorofare, N.J. : 1995)
|December 3, 2003
Summary
Sterile peripheral keratitis can occur after laser in situ keratomileusis (LASIK). Patients with rheumatoid arthritis or prior corneal inflammation may be at higher risk, but good vision outcomes are possible with prompt treatment.
Area of Science:
- Ophthalmology
- Corneal Surgery
- Inflammatory Eye Disease
Background:
- Laser in situ keratomileusis (LASIK) is a common refractive surgery.
- Peripheral keratitis is a potential, though rare, complication following LASIK.
- Identifying risk factors is crucial for patient management.
Observation:
- Two cases of sterile peripheral keratitis post-LASIK are presented.
- One patient had rheumatoid arthritis and pre-existing peripheral corneal changes.
- Presentations varied, with and without epithelial defects, and one case involved the fellow eye.
Findings:
- Peripheral infiltrates appeared within 1 day of LASIK.
- Aggressive antibiotic and corticosteroid therapy were administered.
- Both patients achieved excellent visual recovery without loss of best spectacle-corrected visual acuity.
Implications:
- Preoperative signs of inflammation may indicate higher risk for LASIK-associated peripheral keratitis.
- Rheumatoid arthritis patients may have an increased susceptibility to this complication.
- Early and intensive management can lead to favorable visual outcomes in affected patients.