Recurrent unilateral corneal edema in a 54-year-old patient after endurance sports in low temperature

Abstract

Introduction: Corneal edema in endurance sports at low temperatures is a rare occurrence, and few reports can be found in the literature. Patient and Clinical Findings: A case of unilateral corneal edema in a 54-year-old man with a history of laser in situ keratomileusis surgery, cataract surgery, and vitrectomy is presented. Recurrent episodes of corneal edema were observed during endurance cycling in temperatures below 10 °C, with complete recovery observed the next day without any treatment. Diagnosis, Interventions, and Outcomes: Pathophysiology and therapeutic strategies were discussed. Local administration of hyperosmolar saline lacked of any effect as did administration of acetazolamide. A protection of the affected eye by contact lens was not successful, but ski goggles could effectively prevent the corneal edema. Conclusions: Some single reports in the literature described roughly similar corneal findings under different conditions. A systematic evaluation of this case could reveal a fateful combination of cold temperature, physical activity, and susceptibility of the corneal endothelium. Protection from cold wind by ski goggles was found to be an effective practical approach.