Case report: bilateral Mooren ulcer in association with hepatitis C

Area of Science:

• Ophthalmology
• Immunology
• Hepatology

Background:

• Mooren ulcer is typically idiopathic autoimmune keratitis.
• A potential association with hepatitis C has been suggested but lacks strong evidence.

Observation:

• A patient presented with a severe, treatment-resistant Mooren ulcer in one eye.
• Ten years later, the contralateral eye developed Mooren ulcer, coinciding with the diagnosis of chronic hepatitis C infection.

Findings:

• Combined treatment targeting hepatitis C (ribavirin, interferon) and immunosuppression achieved long-term remission in the second eye.
• This case suggests a possible etiological link between hepatitis C and Mooren ulcer.

Implications:

• Hepatitis C should be considered in the differential diagnosis of Mooren ulcer, especially in recurrent or severe cases.
• Antiviral therapy for hepatitis C may play a role in managing Mooren ulcer, warranting further investigation.