Survey of Corneal Surgeons' Attitudes Regarding Keratoplasty Rejection Risk Associated With Vaccinations

To investigate the attitudes and practice of corneal specialists if patients with keratoplasty sought advice regarding common vaccinations and risk for potential graft rejection.

An online questionnaire was posted on the Kera-net listserv and the EuCornea Web site in early 2020. Attitudes toward vaccinations and keratoplasty were obtained. Decision making for common keratoplasty (endothelial keratoplasty, deep anterior lamellar keratoplasty, and penetrating keratoplasty) scenarios at early and late time points was explored regarding the herpes zoster and influenza vaccines.

There were 142 respondents: 51.1% (70/137) specifically advise their patients with keratoplasty to get all vaccinations; 19.7% (27/137) stated clinical experience of a vaccine-associated rejection episode; 42.2% (57/135) were unaware of any such cases; and 64% (27/42) of those concerned would recommend delay if within 3 months of transplant surgery, recent corneal infection, or a recent rejection episode. The 2245 total responses to 18 clinical scenarios demonstrated wide variability in management of grafts in the setting of vaccination. Generally, 45.9% would not alter management, 26.2% would increase frequency of topical steroids, and 22.2% would recommend delay to vaccinations. Increased concern was expressed with recent surgery, live zoster vaccine and higher-risk penetrating keratoplasty scenarios.

Nearly half of the respondents do not alter management in the setting of keratoplasty and zoster and/or influenza vaccinations. Anecdotal rejection episodes possibly associated with vaccinations were reported by some. Vaccine-related rejection has not been shown in higher-level research, but that has not eliminated clinical concerns. Prospective research into the true vaccine-related risks in keratoplasty is necessary if evidence-based management guidelines are to be developed or definitive reassurance provided.