Choroidal neovascularization after laser-assisted in situ keratomileusis following penetrating keratoplasty

Graefes Arch Clin Exp Ophthalmol. 2003 Aug;241(8):682-4. doi: 10.1007/s00417-003-0705-x. Epub 2003 Jul 17.

Abstract

Purpose: To describe a case of choroidal neovascularization (CNV) after laser in situ keratomileusis (LASIK) following penetrating keratoplasty (PK).

Methods: Case report.

Results: A 30-year-old man underwent PK in both eyes for bilateral keratoconus in 1997. Two years later, best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA) was 20/40 (-6=-4.50 x 170 degrees ) in RE and 20/20 (-1.50=-0.50 x 90 degrees ) in LE. To reduce the anisometropic defect, LASIK was performed in RE. After surgery, the refractive defect in RE reduced to -1.75 x 125 degrees and BCVA improved to 20/25. Six months after LASIK the patient presented loss of vision and metamorphopsia in RE due to choroidal neovascularization. BCVA was reduced to 20/200. Photodynamic therapy was performed in RE; 1 year later BCVA was stable at 20/200.

Conclusion: Vitreoretinal complications after LASIK occur rarely. The potential relationship between CNV and LASIK is discussed.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Anisometropia / etiology
  • Anisometropia / surgery
  • Choroid / blood supply*
  • Fluorescein Angiography
  • Humans
  • Indocyanine Green
  • Keratoconus / surgery*
  • Keratomileusis, Laser In Situ / adverse effects*
  • Lasers, Excimer
  • Male
  • Neovascularization, Pathologic / diagnosis
  • Neovascularization, Pathologic / drug therapy
  • Neovascularization, Pathologic / etiology*
  • Photochemotherapy
  • Photorefractive Keratectomy / adverse effects*
  • Postoperative Period
  • Treatment Outcome
  • Vision Disorders / etiology
  • Visual Acuity

Substances

  • Indocyanine Green