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Linear Interstitial Keratitis - A Retrospective Chart Review of a Rare Entity
Frank Blaser1, Sadiq Said1,2, Julia Victoria Bugajska1
1Department of Ophthalmology, University Hospital Zurich, University of Zurich, Switzerland.
Klinische Monatsblatter Fur Augenheilkunde
|March 17, 2026
Summary
Linear interstitial keratitis (LIK) is a rare eye condition with a distinct stromal opacity. This study highlights its presentation, treatment, and outcomes, suggesting steroid responsiveness with a risk of relapse.
Area of Science:
- Ophthalmology
- Corneal Diseases
- Inflammatory Eye Conditions
Background:
- Linear interstitial keratitis (LIK) is a rare interstitial keratitis variant.
- Characterized by a distinct stromal opacity with unclear cause and management.
- This study presents the largest contemporary series on LIK.
Purpose of the Study:
- To characterize the phenotype, diagnostics, treatment, and outcomes of LIK.
- To understand the pathophysiology and establish management consensus for LIK.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective, investigator-initiated study across two university hospitals.
- Data collected included demographics, clinical features, microbiology, serology, anterior segment imaging, treatments, and outcomes.
- Six unilateral LIK cases were analyzed.
Main Results:
- LIK presents as a sharply demarcated, anterior stromal opacity.
- Anterior Segment Optical Coherence Tomography (AS-OCT) localized lesions anteriorly; Intravenous Corneal Microscopy (IVCM) suggested broader stromal activation.
- Most cases responded to topical corticosteroids with antimicrobials/antivirals, but relapses occurred, with two cases experiencing corneal perforations.
Conclusions:
- LIK is a recognizable, predominantly anterior stromal keratitis phenotype, often affecting younger individuals.
- An immune-stromal process is suspected, but the etiology remains undetermined.
- While generally steroid-responsive, LIK may relapse, necessitating slow tapering and consideration of steroid-sparing prophylaxis, with close monitoring for complications.
