An unreported side effect of topical clarithromycin when used successfully to treat Mycobacterium avium-intracellulare keratitis.

PURPOSE: To report a case of Mycobacterium avium-intracellulare (MAI) keratitis successfully treated with topical clarithromycin. An unreported side effect of the topical medication is described.

METHODS

A regular follow-up in the corneal clinic was arranged, and a pertinent literature search performed.

RESULTS

The use of topical clarithromycin was successful in treating the keratitis. The patient did not complain of any ocular discomfort. Corneal subepithelial deposits that appeared during treatment with clarithromycin resolved shortly after the therapy was discontinued.

CONCLUSION

This case report demonstrates that a rare infection like MAI keratitis can be successfully treated with topical clarithromycin. It also highlights the possible corneal deposition of this drug, which resolved after cessation of therapy.