title: QUIESCENT HERPES SIMPLEX KERATITIS REACTIVATION AFTER INTRAVITREAL INJECTION OF DEXAMETHASONE IMPLANT.
abstract: OBJECTIVE
  To report reactivation of herpes simplex virus keratitis after the injection of dexamethasone implant (Ozurdex) and to raise the awareness of this potentially vision threatening side effect.
  
  
  METHODS
  A 90-year-old man presented with ocular pain and tearing in the left eye 3 weeks after receiving a dexamethasone implant (Ozurdex) for the treatment of macular edema associated with branch retinal vein occlusion. The patient had a history of herpes simplex virus keratitis that was quiescent for more than 30 years.
  
  
  RESULTS
  Clinical examination of the left eye showed arborizing epithelial ulcer with terminal bulbs consistent with herpes simplex virus keratitis.
  
  
  CONCLUSIONS
  Quiescent herpes simplex virus keratitis can be reactivated after dexamethasone implant (Ozurdex). Prophylactic antiviral therapy might be indicated in individuals who have a high risk of recurrent herpetic disease.
authors: *Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, University of Louisville, Louisville, Kentucky; and †Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, University of Massachusetts School of Medicine, University of Massachusetts, Worcester, Massachusetts.
authors: Denis
authors: D
authors: Jusufbegovic
authors: Shlomit
authors: S
authors: Schaal
mesh_terms: D000369:Aged, 80 and over; D000893:Anti-Inflammatory Agents / Q000009:adverse effects*; D003907:Dexamethasone / Q000009:adverse effects*; D004343:Drug Implants / Q000009:adverse effects; D006561:Herpes Simplex / Q000139:chemically induced*; D006801:Humans; D058449:Intravitreal Injections; D016849:Keratitis, Herpetic / Q000139:chemically induced*; D008297:Male; D014775:Virus Activation / Q000187:drug effects*
chemical_list: D000893:Anti-Inflammatory Agents; D004343:Drug Implants; D003907:Dexamethasone