Keratic Precipitates: An Overlooked Sign of Microsporidial Stromal Keratitis?

ABSTRACT

PURPOSE: To elucidate a distinctive clinical feature in cases of microsporidial stromal keratitis (MSK). METHOD: A retrospective observational study of cases with a histopathological and/or microbiological diagnosis of MSK on corneal biopsy or host corneal button between 2016 and 2022 was conducted. RESULTS: Eighteen cases with a confirmed histopathological and/or microbiological diagnosis of MSK were detected. Careful review of slit-lamp photographs revealed the presence of pigmented keratic precipitates (KPs) beyond the area of stromal keratitis in five out of eighteen cases (27.7%). CONCLUSION: The presence of pigmented KPs beyond the area of lesion can alert the clinician to keep microsporidia as a differential cause for stromal keratitis. Management can be tailored accordingly for a better outcome.