Sterile Corneal Perforation Occurring Several Years After Biliopancreatic Diversion.

BACKGROUND

To report the first two cases of sterile corneal perforation secondary to vitamin A deficiency after biliopancreatic diversion with duodenal switch (BPD/SW).

METHODS

Observational case series.

RESULTS

Two patients with a history of BPD/SW presented with corneal perforation associated with conjunctival xerosis and keratopathy. In both cases, serum vitamin A level dosage revealed a marked deficit, and the patients admitted poor compliance with vitamin supplementation. Oral therapy with vitamin A was started immediately, and in one case ocular surgery was performed to preserve the integrity of the globe.

CONCLUSIONS

Ophthalmologists should carefully examine the ocular surface of patients undergone bariatric surgery in order to promptly recognize the signs of vitamin A deficiency and avoid serious sight-threatening complications.