Corneal melting with intraocular lenses

Five patients with collagen vascular disease and keratoconjunctivitis sicca underwent cataract surgery and implantation of intraocular lenses. Postoperative development of corneal melting may have been potentiated by the use of topical 0.1% dexamethasone sodium phosphate alcohol and neomycin sulfate. Permanent visual loss occurred in two patients. Implant removal was necessary in two eyes. Medical management consisted of discontinuance of administration of steroids and antibiotics, as well as the addition of tear substitutes, cycloplegics, and pressure patching.