Rare atypical presentation of phacolytic glaucoma as non-resolving microbial keratitis with endophthalmitis

Abstract

Phacolytic glaucoma (PLG) is a rare complication of hypermature senile cataract. Delayed presentation of PLG may make its diagnosis and management difficult and worsen its prognosis. A woman aged 75 years complaining of sleep disturbing pain and inaccurate projection of rays oculus dextrus (OD) was referred to our centre for management of non-resolving microbial keratitis with endophthalmitis. Ultrasound biomicroscopy revealed 360° peripheral anterior synechiae, swollen crystalline lens and hyperechoic granules filling anterior chamber. A diagnosis of PLG and lens-induced uveitis was made and cataract was extracted after control of intraocular pressure (IOP). The patient was left aphakic. There was complete resolution of pain after surgery and at 3 months follow-up the IOP was controlled without any antiglaucoma medications. Rarely, secondary corneal opacification from long-standing pathological changes in PLG may mimic non-resolving microbial keratitis with endophthalmitis and requires a high index of suspicion for appropriate diagnosis and management.

Keywords: anterior chamber; glaucoma.