A Case of Shield Ulcer Due to Vernal Keratoconjunctivitis

• Main Authors: Dilek Özkaya, Gülşah Usta, Umut Karaca
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Published: Tehran University of Medical Sciences 2021-08-01
• Series: Iranian Journal of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology
• Subjects: Cyclosporine; Vernal keratoconjunctivitis
• Online Access: https://ijaai.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijaai/article/view/2877

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.