Hypopyon uveitis following band keratopathy removal in ankylosing spondylitis-a case report

Abstract

Purpose: To report an interesting case of hypopyon uveitis following successive band keratopathy removal in both the eyes in a patient with ankylosing spondylitis.

Design: Retrospective case report.

Results: A 70-year-old Indian male with ankylosing spondylitis and a 40-year history of chronic anterior uveitis underwent band keratopathy removal (EDTA chelation) in both eyes at an interval of six months. On both occasions, he developed a severe hypopyon uveitis on the first postoperative day, which was successfully treated with topical and oral steroids.

Conclusion: Any ocular procedure, even as trivial as band keratopathy removal, can elicit a severe uveitis in a chronically inflamed eye. The probable mechanisms are discussed.