What causes DLK after Lasik?
Diffuse lamellar keratitis (DLK) is a relatively infrequent complication of LASIK [1]. It may occur after any surgical procedure in which a corneal lamellar incision has created an interface through the stromal tissue.
Is DLK serious?
Severe, vision-threatening DLK may occur in one in 5,000 cases, while very mild cases may be as frequent as one in 50 cases. In mild cases, DLK rarely affects vision and is easily treatable. Left untreated, it can cause permanent damage, including reduction in visual acuity, scarring and stromal melt.
What causes DLK?
DLK is predominantly associated with Lasik, as the creation of a flap creates a potential space for cells to accumulate. Individuals with atopic conditions with pre-existing allergic conjunctivitis, or ocular rosacea, are more prone to developing the condition after surgery.
How common is DLK?
DLK is a postoperative interface inflammation that occurs in the 24–72 h postoperative period. Late activation of DLK without an identified cause has also been reported. The incidence is thought to be 1 : 200 to 1 : 500 cases, but may occur in sequential patients (outbreaks) at a specific location.
Is DLK painful?
Patients with DLK often exhibit pain, foreign body sensation, photophobia, and blurry vision.
How common is DLK after LASIK?
The causes of DLK are not clearly defined. A rare postoperative complication of LASIK, with an estimated incidence of 3 in 400,2 DLK is thought to be a secondary inflammatory response to a variety of potential agents within the space of the flap interface.
How is DLK treated?
Diagnosis and treatment Conventional treatment for DLK is increasing the topical steroid, usually from qid to q2h. The patient should be seen the following day. When the condition worsens, the next step for DLK is lifting the flap and rinsing the interface with steroid.
How is DLK treated after LASIK?
Given its inflammatory nature, all stages of DLK typically respond well to corticosteroid therapy. In certain cases irrigation beneath the flap followed by flap repositioning can remove subepithelial infiltrates and minimize complications associated with the condition.
What does DLK mean?
DLK
| Acronym | Definition |
|---|---|
| DLK | De Lyckliga Kompisarna (Swedish: The Happy Friends; Swedish punk band; est. 1989) |
| DLK | Democratic League of Kosovo (political party) |
| DLK | Double-lined Kraft (recycled paper) |
| DLK | Dream Like Kings Dress Like Kings (clothing line) |
What are the most common complications of LASIK?
One of the most common complications of LASIK is inflammation known as diffuse lamellar keratitis (DLK) or Sands of the Sahara. Diffuse lamellar keratitis is characterized by a diffuse white, granular infiltrate occurring within a few days after LASIK.
What is differentdiffuse LASIK keratitis?
Diffuse lamellar keratitis, also called the Sands of Sahara syndrome, is a complication of LASIK in which inflammatory cells appear in the interface.
Did you experience DLK (inflammation) after LASIK?
If you experienced DLK (inflammation) or other complications after LASIK, the FDA wants to hear from you. File a MedWatch report with the FDA online.
What is Diffuse lamellar keratitis (DLK)?
Diffuse lamellar keratitis is characterized by a diffuse white, granular infiltrate occurring within a few days after LASIK. DLK is a potentially serious, sight-threatening complication. It may be associated with redness, sensitivity to light, tearing, pain, and reduced vision.