Acute hydrops followed by corneal perforation five years after corneal cross-linking for keratoconus

Arq Bras Oftalmol. 2023 Oct 13;86(5):e20230059. doi: 10.5935/0004-2749.20230059. eCollection 2023.

Abstract

We report a case of acute corneal hydrops followed by corneal perforation five years after corneal cross-linking for keratoconus. A healthy 24-year-old female patient underwent Dresden protocol cross-linking in her left eye due to advanced keratoconus. After five years of a stable cornea, she returned with epiphora, blurred vision, and a soft left eye. Acute hydrops and corneal perforation were diagnosed. There was no history of pregnancy, atopy, eye rubbing, trauma, or contact lens use. Local antibiotic and eye patching were applied. Three months after the resolution of the acute episode, she retained useful visual acuity with no need for further surgery. Although cross-linking efficiently halts keratoconus, progression can occur, leading to corneal hydrops and perforation, even in the absence of any risk factors.

Publication types

  • Case Reports
  • Letter

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Corneal Cross-Linking
  • Corneal Edema* / etiology
  • Corneal Perforation* / etiology
  • Corneal Topography
  • Edema / complications
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Keratoconus* / complications
  • Keratoconus* / drug therapy
  • Keratoconus* / surgery
  • Young Adult