Corneal epithelial dots following excimer laser photorefractive keratectomy.

Abstract

Background: Map-dot-fingerprint epithelial changes of the cornea have been reported to occur as a consequence of trauma or surgical procedures, such as radial keratotomy.

Methods: We describe a case of dot-like changes in the corneal epithelium following excimer laser photorefractive keratectomy for the correction of myopia. Because the lesions were located centrally, possibly reducing visual acuity, the epithelium was removed mechanically.

Results: Dot-like changes recurred in the same areas 4 weeks after epithelial debridement. Best spectacle-corrected visual acuity improved from 20/200 to 20/100 and remained stable thereafter.

Conclusions: Photorefractive keratectomy can lead to abnormal regeneration of epithelium basement membrane, possibly resulting in dot-like changes of corneal epithelium.