Peripheral Hypertrophic Subepithelial Corneal Degeneration on a Laser-Assisted In Situ Keratomileusis Flap

Abstract

We describe the first reported case of a patient developing peripheral hypertrophic subepithelial corneal degeneration (PHSCD) in the setting of previous femtosecond laser in situ keratomileusis (LASIK). Superficial keratectomy was performed successfully with the complete restoration of the visual acuity, no LASIK flap complications, and no recurrence of PHSCD at 1-year follow-up. Our case indicates that superficial keratectomy can be a safe and effective treatment for PHSCD in the setting of LASIK and raises awareness of the possibility of PHSCD developing in eyes that have undergone prior LASIK.