Late onset diffuse lamellar keratitis associated with an epithelial defect in six eyes.

PURPOSE To report six cases of late onset diffuse lamellar keratitis associated with epithelial defects 2 to 12 months following uncomplicated laser in situ keratomileusis (LASIK). METHODS Retrospective case series. RESULTS The interface inflammation and epithelial defects were treated aggressively with topical corticosteroids and topical antibiotics with complete resolution over 1 to 2 weeks. There were no complications or loss of best spectacle-corrected visual acuity. These cases illustrate new understanding in the etiology of diffuse lamellar keratitis following lamellar surgery. CONCLUSION Late onset diffuse lamellar keratitis in association with epithelial defects may occur following LASIK. Treatment with topical antibiotics and topical corticosteroids may result in uncomplicated, complete resolution.