Sterile peripheral keratitis following laser in situ keratomileusis.

BACKGROUND

Sterile infiltrates have been reported as a possible complication following photorefractive keratectomy (PRK). They have not been reported following laser in situ keratomileusis (LASIK). We review a case of fleeting, sterile peripheral corneal infiltrates following LASIK.

METHODS

A 53 year old patient developed peripheral, sterile corneal infiltrates along the edge of the primary flap following LASIK. This was successfully managed with topical antibiotics and corticosteroids without permanent sequelae.

RESULTS

Sterile peripheral corneal infiltrates are now a known complication following LASIK. Pathogenesis is undetermined but may involve activation of marginal keratitis reminiscent of that following blepharitis or a mechanism similar to acute subepithelial infiltrative keratitis following PRK.

CONCLUSION

Fleeting, sterile peripheral corneal infiltrates can occur following LASIK. This undesired complication is poorly characterized but can be successfully managed with culturing of the infiltrates, topical corticosteroids, and antibiotics.