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Persistent Corneal Edema Associated With Subconjunctival 5-fluorouracil in an Infant With Primary Congenital Glaucoma
Insights
A rare corneal opacity occurred in an infant treated for congenital glaucoma with 5-fluorouracil. This transient toxicity, though temporary, poses a risk for amblyopia, highlighting the need for careful monitoring.
Area of Science:
- Ophthalmology
- Pediatric Ophthalmology
- Glaucoma Management
Background:
- Primary congenital glaucoma requires surgical intervention.
- Needle bleb revision with 5-fluorouracil is a treatment option.
- Corneal complications can arise from glaucoma surgery.
Observation:
- A 3-month-old boy with congenital glaucoma underwent needle bleb revision.
- Adjunctive 5-fluorouracil was used during the procedure.
- Transient corneal endothelial opacity developed post-operatively.
Findings:
- The case demonstrates a rare instance of corneal endothelial toxicity from 5-fluorouracil.
- The opacity was transient but concerning for potential amblyopia.
- Prior literature on 5-fluorouracil-induced corneal opacity was reviewed.
Implications:
- This adverse event underscores the potential risks of antimetabolites in pediatric glaucoma.
- Close monitoring for visual development is crucial in affected infants.
- Further research may be warranted to optimize safety profiles of adjunctive therapies.
Abstract:
A 3-month-old boy with primary congenital glaucoma developed a transient corneal endothelial opacity after needle bleb revision with adjunctive 5-fluorouracil. This case presents a rare toxicity that, although transient, is concerning due to the potential of amblyopia. The authors review prior cases of corneal opacity associated with 5-fluorouracil. [J Pediatr Ophthalmol Strabismus. 2016;53:e54-e57.].
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