TB Research

Interstitial Keratitis with Corneal Perforation as the Presenting Sign of Systemic Tuberculosis

Sonam Yangzes, Mohit Dogra, Jagat Ram

Ocular Immunology and Inflammation · 2019-02

Abstract

Background: Ocular surface and corneal involvement in tuberculosis is seldom seen. We report a patient of pulmonary and presumed ocular tuberculosis with immune keratitis along with corneal perforation as the presenting signs.Methods: A middle-aged male presented with stromal keratitis, deep corneal vascularization, and two corneal perforations. Necrotic Mantoux test and cavitary lesion on computerized tomography of the chest clinched the diagnosis of tuberculosis-related interstitial keratitis.Results: Tubercular interstitial keratitis was successfully managed with antitubercular therapy, oral and topical steroids while cyanoacrylate glue was used to seal the corneal perforations.Conclusions: Although corneal involvement is uncommon in ocular tuberculosis, in patients with interstitial keratitis who respond poorly to conventional therapy, a possibility of systemic tuberculosis should be considered in endemic countries.

MeSH terms

  • Medicine
  • Corneal perforation
  • Keratitis
  • Tuberculosis
  • Mantoux test
  • Dermatology
  • Perforation
  • Cornea
  • Ocular tuberculosis
  • Ophthalmology
  • Surgery