Calcification of a hydrophilic acrylic intraocular lens after Descemet-stripping endothelial keratoplasty: case report and laboratory analyses

Abstract

We describe the case of an 83-year-old woman who had uneventful phacoemulsification with implantation of a tripod hydrophilic acrylic intraocular lens (IOL). Because of postoperative corneal decompensation, 2 Descemet-stripping endothelial keratoplasty (DSEK) procedures were performed within 2 years. After the second procedure, the graft was not well attached, requiring an intracameral injection of air on day 3. Approximately 9 months later, opacification was observed on the anterior surface of the IOL, with a significant decrease in visual acuity. The IOL was explanted within the capsular bag. Laboratory analyses revealed granular deposits densely distributed in a round pattern within the margins of the capsulorhexis. Granules were located at the anterior surface/subsurface of the IOL and stained positive for calcium (alizarin red and von Kossa method). Scheimpflug photography revealed high levels of light scattering from the opacified area. Surgeons should be aware of possible localized calcification following DSEK procedures in pseudophakic patients with hydrophilic acrylic IOLs.