Microbial keratitis after laser in situ keratomileusis

Abstract

PURPOSE AND METHOD: To review the literature on microbial keratitis reported after laser in situ keratomileusis (LASIK). RESULTS: Forty-one eyes have been reported to have microbial keratitis after LASIK. The causative organisms vary from gram positive bacteria to atypical mycobacteria, fungal, and viral pathogens. The infection is usually acquired intraoperatively, but may also be caused by postoperative contamination. A majority of the patients present within 72 hours of the surgery with an acute onset of symptoms. Management of microbial keratitis after LASIK includes aggressive topical fortified antibiotic therapy, irrigation of stromal bed with antibiotic solution after lifting the flap..