A 13-year-old girl with recurrent anterior uveitis was found to have an eyelash lodged in her anterior chamber angle. Following surgical removal, her inflammation resolved.
Background
Uveitis is a significant cause of vision loss and can be associated with systemic conditions such as HLA-B27 positivity. Misdiagnosis can occur when intraocular foreign bodies (IOFBs) mimic uveitis, leading to inappropriate treatment. This case highlights the importance of thorough examination and consideration of alternative diagnoses in patients with recurrent uveitis.
Data Highlights
No numerical data available.
Key Findings
A 13-year-old girl was initially diagnosed with HLA-B27–associated anterior uveitis.
She experienced redness, pain, and decreased vision for 3 months before diagnosis.
Slit-lamp examination revealed keratic precipitates and hypopyon, but no visible entry wound.
Ultrasound biomicroscopy identified a hyperreflective focus consistent with an IOFB.
The foreign body was surgically removed, revealing an eyelash.
Best-corrected visual acuity improved from 20/250 to 20/20 after 2 years with no recurrence of uveitis.
Clinical Implications
This case highlights the need for clinicians to consider IOFBs in patients with unexplained recurrent uveitis, even in the absence of a trauma history.
Conclusion
Intraocular eyelashes can lead to significant ocular inflammation and may mimic uveitis.
