Pressure-Induced Stromal Keratopathy after Surface Ablation Surgery

Introduction: The purpose of this clinical report was to describe an unprecedented case of bilateral pressure-induced stromal keratopathy (PISK) following corneal photorefractive keratectomy, associated with presumed herpetic keratitis, and to present tomographic and biomechanical findings before and after appropriate treatment. Case Presentation: A 33-year-old male patient was referred to our clinic with suspected delayed corneal epithelial healing 3 weeks after an uncomplicated PRK. A central layer of corneal opacity with a presumed fluid-filled interface area was observed upon slit lamp biomicroscopy. Scheimpflug images from the Pentacam((R)) revealed a hyperreflective area beneath the central cornea. Scheimpflug-based corneal tomography, biomechanical assessment using the Pentacam((R)) AXL Wave, and the Corvis ST (R) were conducted. Goldmann applanation tonometry measured 23/13 mm Hg, while noncontact tonometry intraocular pressure measured with the Corvis ST (R) (Corvis ST IOPnct) was 40.5/43.5 mm Hg. Treatment with oral valacyclovir, combined with ocular hypotensive therapy, led to a significant reduction in IOP and improved corneal deformation parameters after 1 month. Conclusion: Surgeons should be aware of the inaccuracy of Goldmann applanation tonometry in PISK, which can occur after LASIK or surface ablation.