Anterior Uveitis From Retained Perfluorocarbon Liquid in the Anterior Chamber, A Case Report.

Abstract

Purpose: Perfluorocarbon liquids (PFCL) are routinely used in vitreoretinal surgery to flatten the retina and push subretinal fluid. Perfluorocarbon liquid retention is a common complication of vitreoretinal surgery. While retention in the posterior chamber can lead to an inflammatory response, PFCL in the anterior chamber has been shown to be generally well tolerated.

Patients and methods: This report summarizes the findings and treatment of a patient with pathologic myopia and a history of retinal detachment in the left eye repaired with pars plana vitrectomy presenting with one week of blurry vision in the left eye. He was found to have an initial intraocular pressure of 54 mmHg in the left eye along with 1+ conjunctival injection, fine and medium-sized keratic precipitates on the cornea, and 30 cells per high power field. Additionally, there was a retained perfluorocarbon liquid bubble in the anterior chamber from his original retinal detachment repair surgery.

Results: After being started on topical steroids and pressure lowering medications, the patient had persistent inflammation and elevated intraocular pressures. The patient's anterior uveitis and elevated intraocular pressure resolved with removal of the perfluorocarbon liquid bubble by anterior chamber tap.

Conclusion: Retained PFCL in the anterior chamber can cause anterior uveitis and can be promptly treated by removal.