Noninvasive Diagnosis of Epithelial Downgrowth After Penetrating Keratoplasty Using Immunohistochemical Analysis of Resected Corneal Buttons

Abstract

Retrospective immunohistochemical analysis of corneal specimens can establish the diagnosis of epithelial downgrowth in a noninvasive manner. Early diagnosis may allow for this condition to be treated more successfully if aggressive intervention is undertaken. Alternatively, it may spare the patient from additional (and potentially futile) intraocular surgery. In the clinical setting of suspected epithelial downgrowth, ophthalmic pathologists should re-evaluate PK specimens from patients initially diagnosed with pseudophakic corneal edema or graft failure.