Spontaneous Corneal Hydrops and Perforation in Keratoconus and Pellucid Marginal Degeneration

Abstract

These cases document the very unusual occurrence of corneal hydrops leading to spontaneous corneal perforation in patients with keratoconus and pellucid marginal degeneration.

Corneal Perforation Secondary to UV Radiation From a Tanning Lamp

“…[1][2][3] It usually occurs in the setting of acute hydrops, which had not occurred in this patient. [1][2][3] Exposure to UV sources has long been recognized to cause photokeratitis. The most common causes are arc welding and solar reflection, especially in snow.…”

Spontaneous Resolution of Acute Corneal Hydrops in a Patient With Post-LASIK Ectasia

“…7 On very rare occasions, corneal perforation may accompany acute hydrops; risk factors may include eye rubbing, pregnancy, topical corticosteroid use, and elevated intraocular pressure. 5,9 Corneal ectasia is a rare complication of LASIK and may occur years after uncomplicated refractive surgery. 10 Although the pathogenesis is not well understood, purported risk factors may include abnormal preoperative topographic findings (such as forme fruste keratoconus), low corneal pachymetry, a thin residual posterior stromal bed, high myopia, and young age.…”

Perforated Corneal Hydrops Treated With Sulfur Hexafluoride (SF6) Gas and Tissue Adhesive

“…2,5 Penetrating keratoplasty in the mentally retarded patient has been associated with the risk of serious postoperative complications due to poor cooperation, including problems with self-inflicted behaviors such as eye rubbing. 2,3 In this case, emergency tectonic keratoplasty was avoided.…”