Bilateral and unilateral mesodermal corneal metaplasia

Area of Science:

• Ophthalmology
• Developmental Biology
• Pediatric Medicine

Background:

• Corneal metaplasia is a rare condition affecting ocular development.
• Understanding its etiology is crucial for early diagnosis and management in infants.

Observation:

• Two infants presented with distinct forms of corneal metaplasia: one bilateral with eyelid abnormalities and microphthalmos, the other unilateral with microphthalmos and nasal malformation.
• Ultrasonography revealed specific ocular anomalies including aphakia and persistent hyaloid in the bilateral case.

Findings:

• The bilateral case raises questions about whether it represents abortive cryptophthalmos or primary metaplasia inhibiting lid growth.
• The unilateral case, associated with nasal malformation, is hypothesized to be caused by an amniotic band.

Implications:

• These cases highlight the diverse presentations and potential etiologies of infantile corneal metaplasia.
• Further research is needed to elucidate the precise mechanisms and genetic factors involved in corneal metaplasia.
• Surgical intervention, such as dermoid excision and lamellar corneal grafting, may be considered for unilateral cases.