Pterygium after hyperopic laser-assisted sub-epithelial keratomileusis (LASEK)

Area of Science:

• Ophthalmology
• Corneal Surgery
• Refractive Surgery

Background:

• A 61-year-old woman with hyperopia underwent laser-assisted sub-epithelial keratomileusis (LASEK) and Salzmann's nodule removal.
• The patient had a small Salzmann's nodule, a benign corneal growth, in her right eye.

Observation:

• Post-surgery, the patient achieved 6/6 unaided vision.
• At 10 months, a pterygium developed, encroaching on the cornea and reducing vision.
• The pterygium recurred after treatment with mitomycin-C and conjunctival auto-grafting, inducing astigmatism.

Findings:

• Pterygium growth after refractive surgery may be linked to excimer laser procedures.
• Peripheral Salzmann's nodules might increase the risk of pterygium development.
• Recurrent pterygium can induce astigmatism and affect visual acuity.

Implications:

• This case highlights a potential association between refractive surgery and pterygium formation.
• Salzmann's nodules could be a predisposing factor for pterygium development post-surgery.
• Further research is needed to understand the relationship between corneal procedures and pterygium growth.