High ablation depth phototherapeutic keratectomy in an advanced case of Reis-Bucklers’ corneal dystrophy

PURPOSE: Phototherapeutic keratectomy (PTK) plays an important role in the management of Reis-Bucklers’ corneal dystrophy. The usage of PTK for the treatment of anterior corneal dystrophies is limited by the depth of ablation. This case shows the usage of high ablation depth PTK as one of the management strategies to visually rehabilitate a patient of advanced Reis-Bucklers’ corneal dystrophy. OBSERVATIONS: We present a case of 32-year-old lady who was diagnosed with Reis-Bucklers’ dystrophy in both eyes. The patient had advanced form of the disease and history of recurrent corneal erosions. For visual rehabilitation and symptomatic relief, phototherapeutic keratectomy was planned in both eyes. In view of the advanced nature of the disease, the ablation depth had to be high to get an acceptably clear central cornea. CONCLUSIONS AND IMPORTANCE: PTK with high ablation depth is possible in advanced Reis-Bucklers’ corneal dystrophy unlike other types of anterior corneal dystrophies.