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Spontaneous corneal hydrops and perforation in pellucid marginal degeneration; a case report
Davoud Gharebaghi1, Behzad Fallahi, Alireza Javadzadeh
1Nikookari Eye Hospital, Tabriz Medical University, Tabriz, Iran.
Purpose:
To report an unusual presentation of pellucid marginal degeneration (PMD).
Case Report:
A 57-year-old man with history of corneal ectasia experienced acute hydrops and spontaneous corneal perforation in his right eye. Examination revealed PMD in both eyes. After initial treatment with cyanoacrylate adhesive and a bandage contact lens, therapeutic penetrating keratoplasty was undertaken in the right eye. Due to severity of the condition, the fellow eye was also scheduled for penetrating keratoplasty.
Conclusion:
Spontaneous corneal hydrops and perforation may occur in patients with corneal ectasia due to PMD.
Insights
Pellucid marginal degeneration (PMD) can lead to acute hydrops and spontaneous corneal perforation in patients with corneal ectasia. This case highlights an unusual presentation requiring therapeutic penetrating keratoplasty.
Area of Science:
- Ophthalmology
- Corneal Diseases
Background:
- Pellucid marginal degeneration (PMD) is a rare, bilateral, progressive thinning disorder of the peripheral cornea.
- Corneal ectasia, characterized by abnormal corneal protrusion, is often associated with PMD.
Observation:
- A 57-year-old male with a history of corneal ectasia presented with acute hydrops and spontaneous corneal perforation in his right eye.
- Ophthalmic examination confirmed PMD in both eyes.
Findings:
- The patient underwent initial treatment with cyanoacrylate adhesive and a bandage contact lens for the perforated cornea.
- Therapeutic penetrating keratoplasty was performed on the right eye due to the severity of the condition.
- The fellow eye was also scheduled for penetrating keratoplasty, indicating the bilateral nature and severity of PMD.
Implications:
- This case underscores the potential for spontaneous corneal hydrops and perforation as a complication of PMD in patients with corneal ectasia.
- Early recognition and management are crucial for preserving vision in such cases.
- Further research into the pathogenesis and optimal management strategies for PMD-associated complications is warranted.
