Herpes Simplex Virus Keratitis in a University Tertiary Referral Centre - Clinical Features and Surgical Approaches

To assess prevalence, clinical manifestations, required keratoplasties, follow-up, and outcome in patients with Herpes Simplex Virus Keratitis (HSK) attending a University Tertiary Referral Center.

Retrospective (12 years), descriptive, observational study.

A total of 817 eyes with clinical diagnosis of HSK from 779 patients were classified by the type of presentation. We gathered data on the visual acuity, refraction, IOP, and required surgical procedures.

Stromal involvement including scars represented the most common diagnosis in our department and the main indication of penetrating keratoplasty (PKP). Epithelial keratitis (16%) presented with the best visual acuity at the first visit. Necrotizing keratitis represented 17% of the patients, 78% of whom required PKP; this group also had the worst visual acuity at first examination and was the main indication for emergency PKP. Among all eyes, 288 (35%) required PKP. A total of 230 (28%) PKPs were elective procedures and 58 (7%) PKPs were performed as emergency procedures. Two patients with quiet endothelial decompensations after recurrent HSV endotheliitis were treated with DMEK and had good visual outcomes without HSV recurrence at last follow-up.

HSK is a prevalent disease with severe consequences when not treated appropriately and on time. Even when making an accurate diagnosis, the disease can be extremely aggressive, with all the implications it brings to the patients and health system. Elective PKP had better outcomes in terms of visual acuity and clear graft percentage compared to emergency PKP.