PURPOSE: Diffuse lamellar keratitis after laser in situ keratomileusis (LASIK) typically occurs between 1 and 7 days after the procedure, and its etiologic factor(s) remain unknown. METHODS: We describe a case of diffuse lamellar keratitis 6 months after uneventful LASIK in a 25-year-old woman. RESULTS: Slit-lamp microscopy showed a diffuse infiltrate confined to the interface, extending to the visual axis, with no other relevant findings. Late on-set diffuse lamellar keratitis was our provisional diagnosis and treatment with topical corticosteroids was instituted, with rapid response and improvement of the clinical signs and symptoms. CONCLUSIONS: This case supports the theory that a previously inert inciting agent could cause a delayed toxic or inflammatory response of the cornea several months after surgery.
PURPOSE: Diffuse lamellar keratitis after laser in situ keratomileusis (LASIK) typically occurs between 1 and 7 days after the procedure, and its etiologic factor(s) remain unknown. METHODS: We describe a case of diffuse lamellar keratitis 6 months after uneventful LASIK in a 25-year-old woman. RESULTS: Slit-lamp microscopy showed a diffuse infiltrate confined to the interface, extending to the visual axis, with no other relevant findings. Late on-set diffuse lamellar keratitis was our provisional diagnosis and treatment with topical corticosteroids was instituted, with rapid response and improvement of the clinical signs and symptoms. CONCLUSIONS: This case supports the theory that a previously inert inciting agent could cause a delayed toxic or inflammatory response of the cornea several months after surgery.