A Case of Shield Ulcer Due to Vernal Keratoconjunctivitis

Dilek Özkaya; Gülşah Usta; Umut Karaca

doi:10.18502/ijaai.v20i4.6961

Dilek Özkaya Department of Ophthalmology, Faculty of Medicine, Süleyman Demirel University, Isparta, Turkey
Gülşah Usta Department of Ophthalmology, Faculty of Medicine, Süleyman Demirel University, Isparta, Turkey
Umut Karaca Department of Ophthalmology, Faculty of Medicine, Süleyman Demirel University, Isparta, Turkey

DOI: https://doi.org/10.18502/ijaai.v20i4.6961

Keywords: Cyclosporine; Vernal keratoconjunctivitis

Abstract

Corneal shield ulcer is an uncommon but serious complication of vernal keratoconjunctivitis (VKC) that can threaten visual acuity. We present a 12-year-old case with a corneal shield ulcer on the superior part of the cornea in the right eye. We learned from his history that he was treated with topical cyclosporine A (CsA) and corneal debridement was performed for the same complaints six months ago. His complaints recurred six months after ceasing topical CsA voluntarily. Topical anti-allergic and CsA treatments were commenced, we also performed corneal debridement. During his follow-ups, the corneal ulcer healed leaving a scar as opacity and neovascularization. This case highlights the role of the anti-inflammatory effect of CsA in preventing the recurrence of shield ulcers.