Post-LASIK edema-induced keratopathy (PLEK), a new name based on pathophysiology of the condition

A 33-year-old man who underwent uneventful laser in situ keratomileusis (LASIK) developed pressure-induced stromal edema resulting in an interface haze in both eyes and a pocket of fluid under the flap of the right eye 10 days after surgery, while receiving topical fluorometholone. Intraocular pressure by applanation tonometry was 16 mm Hg in his right eye (erroneous result due to the fluid in the interface) and 34 mm Hg in his left eye. After discontinuation of steroids and addition of ocular hypotensive medication, interface fluid collection disappeared in his right eye. Visual acuity improved and haze diminished in both eyes. This case illustrates that in the same patient a post-LASIK edema induced syndrome may be present with or without fluid in the interface, suggesting that both clinical pictures could be manifestations of a broad spectrum of the same condition. We suggest a new name for this non-inflammatory disorder: post-LASIK edema-induced keratopathy (PLEK).