Primary varicella-zoster keratitis: Diagnosis by polymerase chain reaction

W. J. Power, R. N. Hogan, S. Hu, C. S. Foster

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

16 Scopus citations

Abstract

PURPOSE: To report the value of polymerase chain reaction in the diagnosis of a worsening corneal ulcer. METHODS: A 6-year-old boy underwent an emergent penetrating keratoplasty for a corneal ulcer that continued to worsen despite intensive antibiotic therapy. RESULTS: Examination of the corneal specimen by polymerase chain reaction was positive for varicella- zoster virus but negative for herpes simplex. Based on polymerase chain reaction studies, we diagnosed primary varicella-zoster keratitis with corneal perforation. Electron microscopy showed herpetic virus particles in the cornea. CONCLUSIONS: Polymerase chain reaction analysis of curheal buttons at the time of penetrating keratoplasty may benefit patients with undiagnosed recalcitrant corneal ulcers.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Pages (from-to)252-254
Number of pages3
JournalAmerican journal of ophthalmology
Volume123
Issue number2
DOIs
StatePublished - 1997

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • Ophthalmology

Fingerprint

Dive into the research topics of 'Primary varicella-zoster keratitis: Diagnosis by polymerase chain reaction'. Together they form a unique fingerprint.

Cite this