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Updated: May 7, 2026

Conjunctival Commensal Isolation and Identification in Mice
Published on: May 1, 2021
Multidrug-resistant bacteria induce recurrent keratoconjunctivitis in a patient with common variable
Jiang Chao1, Zhou Yumei, Wang Zhiqun
1Beijing Ophthalmology & Visual Sciences Key Lab, Beijing Tongren Eye Center, Beijing Institute of Ophthalmology, Beijing Tongren Hospital, Capital University of Medical Science, Beijing, China.
Purpose:
We present a case study regarding a patient with recurrent keratoconjunctivitis that presented as an initial manifestation of common variable immunodeficiency (CVID).
Methods:
We describe a case and review the recent relevant medical literature.
Results:
A 33-year-old male had recurrent keratoconjunctivitis induced by multidrug-resistant bacteria. Topical vancomycin treatment was effective, but infection recurred when the vancomycin treatment was stopped. The patient was transferred to the Department of Medicine to rule out potential systemic immune diseases and was finally diagnosed with CVID. Intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIG) was administered, and the patient was followed up monthly without any recurrence of infection to date. IVIG will be administered monthly for the patient's lifetime.
Conclusions:
Keratoconjunctivitis is a CVID-associated manifestation, sometimes appearing as the first presentation. CVID should be considered when unexplained recurrent conjunctival and/or corneal bacterial infections are observed. Topical therapy is not sufficient to treat this infection and IVIG is necessary.
Insights
Recurrent keratoconjunctivitis can be an early sign of common variable immunodeficiency (CVID). Prompt diagnosis and treatment with intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIG) are crucial for managing this condition.
Area of Science:
- Ophthalmology
- Immunology
- Infectious Diseases
Background:
- Common variable immunodeficiency (CVID) is a primary immunodeficiency characterized by impaired antibody production.
- Ocular manifestations, such as recurrent infections, can be presenting symptoms of CVID.
Observation:
- A 33-year-old male presented with recurrent, multidrug-resistant bacterial keratoconjunctivitis.
- Initial topical vancomycin treatment provided temporary relief but was insufficient to prevent recurrence upon cessation.
Findings:
- The patient was diagnosed with CVID after systemic immune evaluation.
- Treatment with intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIG) resulted in complete resolution of ocular infections.
- Long-term monthly IVIG administration is planned for lifelong management.
Implications:
- Keratoconjunctivitis may be the initial clinical presentation of CVID.
- Unexplained recurrent bacterial conjunctival and corneal infections warrant investigation for underlying immunodeficiency.
- Systemic management with IVIG is essential for CVID-associated ocular infections, as topical therapies are inadequate.
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