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Diode-laser-induced cataract and iris atrophy as a complication of eyelid hair removal
Harilaos S Brilakis1, Edward J Holland
1Cincinnati Eye Institute, University of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, Ohio 45242, USA. hbrilakis@cincinnatieye.com
Purpose:
To caution about ocular risks of dermatologic diode laser, including cataract formation and iris atrophy.
Design:
Observational case report.
Methods:
A 63-year-old woman underwent diode epilation in the upper eyelid area without protective eye shields and experienced a sharp ocular pain during treatment of her left eye. She later presented with decreased vision in that eye and sensitivity to light.
Results:
Iris atrophy and a nuclear cataract were seen on examination. In the absence of any such observations at previous eye examinations and of any contributory ocular history, these findings were attributed to the diode laser treatment.
Conclusion:
Diode laser epilation in the upper eyelid region could entail risks for intraocular structures, including cataractogenesis and iris atrophy.
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