Necrotic scleral melt and fungal keratitis—a complication of subtenon triamcinolone acetonide injection

Abstract

Abstract Purpose Subtenon triamcinolone acetonide injection (STAI) is a safe drug delivery method for various ocular conditions. We report two cases of necrotic scleral melt, a rare complication of STAI. Methods The first patient received STAI for post-operative inflammation control and developed necrotic scleral melt at the site of STAI with superadded fungal keratitis. The second patient received three STAI for non-necrotizing, non-infectious anterior scleritis and developed scleral necrosis at the site of her last STAI. Noncompliance with medications resulted in the progression of scleral necrosis to a new area. Results In the first patient, surgical removal of triamcinolone deposit resulted in healing of the scleral melt while the second patient was managed conservatively with corticosteroids and immunosuppressants. Conclusion Scleral melt is a rare complication of STAI; however, an early diagnosis and management of any predisposing factor along with surgical debridement should be considered as a potential critical treatment option to salvage the eye.