title: Choroidal neovascularization in a young, healthy eye after LASIK.
abstract: BACKGROUND
  Choroidal neovascularization (CNV) is associated with age-related macular degeneration (AMD), degenerative myopia, angioid streaks, presumed ocular histoplasmosis syndrome, and numerous other ocular and systemic conditions. Idiopathic CNV is also a common form of the condition. However, CNV has rarely been noted after laser-assisted in situ keratomileusis (LASIK) and a cause-and-effect relationship has not been found. A case of CNV after uneventful LASIK is reported here, along with a literature review of previously reported cases and suggested pathophysiology. A link between LASIK and CNV is sought.
  
  
  METHODS
  A case report of CNV in a young, healthy eye after uneventful LASIK is presented. Review of the pertinent literature reporting a relationship between LASIK and CNV was conducted through 2007, and few studies are reported after 2005.
  
  
  CONCLUSIONS
  To date, there is anecdotal evidence of CNV after LASIK. The incidence from prior reports ranges from 0.003% to 0.33%. However, a causal link cannot be disregarded and merits further study. Each patient undergoing LASIK warrants a thorough preoperative dilated fundus examination, including a thorough examination of the macula. This occurrence, albeit rare, should be considered for inclusion in the refractive surgery consent form.
authors: State University of New York State College of Optometry, New York, NY, USA. bbathija@gmail.com
authors: Bharti
authors: B
authors: Bathija-Lala
authors: Sherry J
authors: SJ
authors: Bass
authors: Richard J
authors: RJ
authors: Madonna
authors: Alan
authors: A
authors: Dayan
mesh_terms: D000328:Adult; D020256:Choroidal Neovascularization / Q000209:etiology*; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D020731:Keratomileusis, Laser In Situ / Q000009:adverse effects*; D008266:Macula Lutea; D012163:Retinal Detachment / Q000209:etiology; D012307:Risk Factors; D044465:White People