Sterile infiltrates after cross-linking.

Area of Science:

• Ophthalmology
• Corneal Surgery
• Biomaterials Science

Background:

• Keratoconus is a progressive thinning of the cornea, leading to irregular astigmatism and vision loss.
• Corneal cross-linking (CXL) is a standard treatment to halt keratoconus progression by strengthening corneal tissue.
• Asymmetric bilateral keratoconus requires careful consideration for treatment, balancing efficacy with potential risks.

Observation:

• A 20-year-old female patient with asymmetric bilateral keratoconus underwent CXL in her right eye.
• Post-procedure monitoring revealed the development of corneal infiltrates within three days.
• These infiltrates were clinically assessed and classified as sterile, lacking signs of active infection.

Findings:

• The case report documents the occurrence of sterile infiltrates following standard CXL procedure.
• While CXL is generally safe, this observation points to potential, albeit rare, complications.
• The etiology of these sterile infiltrates remains unclear, necessitating further investigation.

Implications:

• This case underscores the importance of vigilant post-operative monitoring after CXL.
• Understanding the causes of sterile infiltrates could refine CXL protocols and patient selection.
• Further research is warranted to elucidate the pathogenesis of sterile infiltrates and optimize patient outcomes in keratoconus management.