Corneal Ring Infiltrate Following Micropulse Cyclophotocoagulation.

Area of Science:

• Ophthalmology
• Corneal Diseases
• Glaucoma Surgery

Background:

• Neurotrophic keratopathy (NK) is a condition affecting corneal health.
• Micropulse cyclophotocoagulation (MP-CPC) is a treatment for glaucoma.
• NK can present atypically, posing diagnostic challenges.

Purpose of the Study:

• To report a case of NK following MP-CPC presenting as a ring infiltrate.
• To describe diagnostic challenges associated with this presentation.
• To emphasize the importance of preoperative corneal assessment in at-risk patients.

Main Methods:

• A case report of a 36-year-old diabetic woman with neovascular glaucoma treated with MP-CPC.
• Clinical examination including visual acuity, corneal sensitivity, and slit lamp findings.
• Diagnostic workup including corneal scrapings to exclude infectious keratitis.
• Treatment involved conservative measures, followed by amniotic membrane grafting.

Main Results:

• The patient developed a corneal ring infiltrate and epithelial defect post-MP-CPC.
• Initial conservative treatment failed; amniotic membrane grafting led to complete healing.
• Residual corneal scarring was noted after healing.

Conclusions:

• Neurotrophic keratopathy can present as a corneal ring infiltrate, mimicking infectious keratitis.
• Preoperative assessment of corneal sensation is recommended for patients undergoing MP-CPC, particularly diabetics.
• Close monitoring and tailored treatment protocols are vital to prevent severe ocular complications after MP-CPC.