Chronic Progressive External Ophthalmoplegia and Ocular Surface Complications. JMedOpt 1(2) Journal of Medical Optometry
Date
04/30/2022Abstract
Purpose: To present a case study and review of chronic progressive external ophthalmoplegia (CPEO) with the challenging complications of Demodex infestation, exposure keratopathy and recurrent corneal defect.
Case Report Summary: A 36-year-old male presented with the complaint of redness, burning and swelling of the left eye for the previous two weeks. He had been diagnosed with chronic progressive external ophthalmoplegia (CPEO) over 25 years prior and had undergone multiple eyelid and strabismus surgeries. After examination, the diagnosis was exposure keratopathy with an inferior corneal defect of the left eye. Additionally, it was noted, a marked anterior blepharitis with suspicion of Demodex infestation was present. With topical treatment consisting of mainly corticosteroids and antibiotics, the corneal defect closed. Consistent use of preservative free artificial tear lubricants and moisture goggles helped with the chronic exposure. Management of the blepharitis with eyelid hygiene, including tea tree oil, eyelid margin debridement, and warm compresses stabilized his ocular surface.
Conclusions: This case highlights the challenges in the long-term management of CPEO and the associated ocular morbidities, such as Demodex infestation and exposure keratopathy.
