Anterior uveitis associated with laser epilation of eyebrows

BACKGROUND: The objective of the study is to report a case of unilateral anterior uveitis after laser hair removal of the eyebrows with an alexandrite laser. FINDINGS: A 36-year-old female presented with painful red eye and photophobia in her left eye 2 days after receiving alexandrite (755 nm) laser epilation of both eyebrows. Visual acuity was 20/20 in both eyes. Right eye examination was normal. Left eye examination showed conjunctival injection, 2+ cells in the anterior chamber, and local posterior synechiae. Intraocular pressure and fundus examination were normal in both eyes. Topical steroids and cycloplegic drops were prescribed. Three days after the initiation of topical treatment, there was a reduction in anterior chamber cells to 1+, but posterior synechiae was enhanced. One week after, there were 0.5+ cells in the anterior chamber and no further enlargement of posterior synechiae. At the 2-month follow-up, uncorrected visual acuity remained 20/20 in both eyes. Slit-lamp biomicroscopy of the right eye was normal. Intraocular pressure and fundus examination were still normal in both eyes. Although anterior chamber of the left eye was clear, posterior synechiae persisted. We are still following the patient. CONCLUSION: Laser hair removal of the eyebrows can lead to ocular damage and should be avoided.