Abstract
Purpose: 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. Conclusion: 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.
| Original language | English (US) |
|---|---|
| Pages (from-to) | 296-297 |
| Number of pages | 2 |
| Journal | Retinal Cases and Brief Reports |
| Volume | 11 |
| Issue number | 4 |
| DOIs | |
| State | Published - 2017 |
Keywords
- dexamethasone implant
- herpes simplex keratitis
- Ozurdex
- reactivation
- recurrence
ASJC Scopus subject areas
- Ophthalmology