Eye rubbing as an apparent cause of recurrent keratoconus.

PURPOSE: To report a case of recurrent keratoconus after penetrating keratoplasty (PKP) because of allergic conjunctivitis.

METHOD: Case report.

RESULTS

A 23-year-old woman who had successful bilateral PKP presented with complaints of visual impairment 3 years after the last examination. She also complained of severe ocular itching and hyperemia, and she reported a history of vigorous eye rubbing. The diagnosis of recurrent keratoconus was confirmed based on clinical findings and topographic features.

CONCLUSIONS

A recurrence of keratoconus can occur because of itch-provoked rubbing of the eyes. Patients who had PKP should be evaluated for a history of ocular allergies.