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Published on: July 23, 2016
QUIESCENT HERPES SIMPLEX KERATITIS REACTIVATION AFTER INTRAVITREAL INJECTION OF DEXAMETHASONE IMPLANT
Denis Jusufbegovic1, Shlomit Schaal
1*Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, University of Louisville, Louisville, Kentucky; and †Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, University of Massachusetts School of Medicine, University of Massachusetts, Worcester, Massachusetts.
Purpose:
To report reactivation of herpes simplex virus keratitis after the injection of dexamethasone implant (Ozurdex) and to raise the awareness of this potentially vision threatening side effect.
Methods:
A 90-year-old man presented with ocular pain and tearing in the left eye 3 weeks after receiving a dexamethasone implant (Ozurdex) for the treatment of macular edema associated with branch retinal vein occlusion. The patient had a history of herpes simplex virus keratitis that was quiescent for more than 30 years.
Results:
Clinical examination of the left eye showed arborizing epithelial ulcer with terminal bulbs consistent with herpes simplex virus keratitis.
Conclusion:
Quiescent herpes simplex virus keratitis can be reactivated after dexamethasone implant (Ozurdex). Prophylactic antiviral therapy might be indicated in individuals who have a high risk of recurrent herpetic disease.
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