Bilateral neurotrophic keratopathy complicating Vidian neurectomy

Am J Ophthalmol. 2001 Jul;132(1):106-8. doi: 10.1016/s0002-9394(00)00958-2.

Abstract

Purpose: To present a case of bilateral neurotrophic keratopathy with miosis after bilateral Vidian neurectomy for vasomotor rhinitis.

Methods: Observational case report.

Results: A 68 year-old man presented with irritation and blurred vision in both eyes 2 weeks after bilateral Vidian neurectomy. Slit-lamp examination revealed a large epithelial defect, typical of neurotrophic keratopathy, in the inferior two-thirds of cornea in both eyes. Corneal sensitivity test with a Cochet-Bonnet anesthesiometer and electrical study of the blink reflex indicated bilateral trigeminal dysfunction. Both pupils were miotic, and tests with hydroxyamphetamine 1% and epinephrine 0.1% showed postganglionic sympathetic nerve damage. The corneal epithelial defects healed after 2 months of treatment with systemic prednisolone, vitamin B(12) and tarsorrhaphy.

Conclusion: Neurotrophic keratopathy associated with dry eye syndrome may be a serious complication of Vidian neurectomy.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Aged
  • Cornea / innervation*
  • Corneal Diseases / etiology*
  • Headache / etiology
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Miosis / etiology
  • Nasal Mucosa / innervation*
  • Parasympathectomy / adverse effects*
  • Parasympathetic Nervous System / surgery*
  • Rhinitis, Vasomotor / surgery
  • Trigeminal Nerve Diseases / etiology*