Late onset diffuse lamellar keratitis associated with an epithelial defect in six eyes.
OBJECTIVE
To report six cases of late onset diffuse lamellar keratitis associated with epithelial defects 2 to 12 months following uncomplicated laser in situ keratomileusis (LASIK).


METHODS
Retrospective case series.


RESULTS
The interface inflammation and epithelial defects were treated aggressively with topical corticosteroids and topical antibiotics with complete resolution over 1 to 2 weeks. There were no complications or loss of best spectacle-corrected visual acuity. These cases illustrate new understanding in the etiology of diffuse lamellar keratitis following lamellar surgery.


CONCLUSIONS
Late onset diffuse lamellar keratitis in association with epithelial defects may occur following LASIK. Treatment with topical antibiotics and topical corticosteroids may result in uncomplicated, complete resolution.
Haw
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Department of Ophthalmology, Stanford University School of Medicine, CA 94305, USA.
Manche
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EE
D000287:Administration, Topical; D000328:Adult; D000890:Anti-Infective Agents / Q000008:administration & dosage; D000893:Anti-Inflammatory Agents / Q000008:administration & dosage; D002939:Ciprofloxacin / Q000008:administration & dosage; D019573:Epithelium, Corneal; D005500:Follow-Up Studies; D006801:Humans; D007634:Keratitis / Q000188:drug therapy / Q000209:etiology*; D020731:Keratomileusis, Laser In Situ / Q000009:adverse effects; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D015242:Ofloxacin / Q000008:administration & dosage; D011239:Prednisolone / Q000008:administration & dosage; D012189:Retrospective Studies; D013997:Time Factors; D014792:Visual Acuity; D014985:Xerophthalmia
D000890:Anti-Infective Agents; D000893:Anti-Inflammatory Agents; D002939:Ciprofloxacin; D011239:Prednisolone; D015242:Ofloxacin