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Corneal perforation associated with topically applied gatifloxacin
1Department of Ophthalmology, College of Medicine, King Khalid University, Abha, Saudi Arabia. amaamri@hotmail.com
Purpose:
To document the development of corneal perforation after using gatifloxacin to treat inflamed pterygium.
Methods:
A 30-year-old man developed corneal perforation after using gatifloxacin to treat inflamed pterygium.
Results:
After treatment with gatifloxacin was stopped, the perforation was managed by applying cyanoacrylate glue, followed by pterygium excision.
Conclusions:
If used in the management of inflamed pterygium, gatifloxacin may predispose patients to corneal perforation.
Insights
Gatifloxacin use for inflamed pterygium may lead to corneal perforation. Prompt management with cyanoacrylate glue and surgery is crucial for this sight-threatening complication.
Area of Science:
- Ophthalmology
- Corneal Surgery
- Pharmacovigilance
Background:
- Pterygium is a common ocular condition.
- Inflamed pterygium requires treatment.
- Gatifloxacin is an antibiotic used in ophthalmic preparations.
Observation:
- A 30-year-old male patient developed corneal perforation.
- The perforation occurred after treatment with gatifloxacin for inflamed pterygium.
Findings:
- Discontinuation of gatifloxacin was the first step in management.
- Corneal perforation was successfully treated with cyanoacrylate glue.
- Subsequent pterygium excision was performed.
Implications:
- Gatifloxacin may be associated with an increased risk of corneal perforation in patients with inflamed pterygium.
- Ophthalmologists should exercise caution when prescribing gatifloxacin for pterygium.
- Further research is warranted to confirm this association and elucidate the mechanism.
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