The Influence of HLA Polymorphisms on the Severity of COVID-19 in the Romanian Population.

In this study, we aimed to investigate whether specific HLA alleles found in patients from Romania and the Republic of Moldova were associated with the severity of COVID-19 infection and its associated mortality. We analyzed the HLA alleles at the -A, -B, -C, -DRB1, and -DQB1 loci in a cohort of 130 individuals with severe and extremely severe forms of COVID-19, including 44 individuals who died. We compared these findings to a control group consisting of individuals who had either not been diagnosed with COVID-19 or had experienced mild forms of the disease. Using multivariate logistic regression models, we discovered that the B*27 and B*50 alleles were associated with an increased susceptibility to developing a severe form of COVID-19. The A*33 and C*15 alleles showed potential for offering protection against the disease. Furthermore, we identified two protective alleles (A*03 and DQB1*02) against the development of extremely severe forms of COVID-19. By utilizing score statistics, we established a statistically significant association between haplotypes and disease severity (p = 0.021). In summary, this study provides evidence that HLA genotype plays a role in influencing the clinical outcome of COVID-19 infection.

HLA-DR and HLA-DQ Polymorphism Correlation with Sexually Transmitted Infection Caused by Chlamydia trachomatis.

Background and Objectives: Chlamydia trachomatis (C. trachomatis) represents one of the most prevalent bacterial sexually transmitted diseases. This study aims to explore the relationship between HLA alleles/genotypes/haplotypes and C. trachomatis infection to better understand high-risk individuals and potential complications. Materials and Methods: This prospective study recruited participants from Transylvania, Romania. Patients with positive NAAT tests for C. trachomatis from cervical/urethral secretion or urine were compared with controls regarding HLA-DR and -DQ alleles. DNA extraction for HLA typing was performed using venous blood samples. Results: Our analysis revealed that the presence of the DRB1*13 allele significantly heightened the likelihood of C. trachomatis infection (p = 0.017). Additionally, we observed that individuals carrying the DRB1*01/DRB1*13 and DQB1*03/DQB1*06 genotype had increased odds of C. trachomatis infection. Upon adjustment, the association between the DRB1*01/DRB1*13 genotype and C. trachomatis remained statistically significant. Conclusions: Our findings underscore the importance of specific HLA alleles and genotypes in influencing susceptibility to C. trachomatis infection. These results highlight the intricate relationship between host genetics and disease susceptibility, offering valuable insights for targeted prevention efforts and personalized healthcare strategies.

Association between Human Leukocyte Antigen and End-Stage Renal Disease in Patients from Transylvania, Romania.

End-stage renal disease (ESRD) is the final stage of chronic kidney disease. This study explored the association between human leukocyte antigen (HLA) and ESRD. The interaction between genetic and environmental factors may also play a role in the development of ESRD. The study included 2392 ESRD patients who were awaiting renal transplantation. Blood samples were genotyped by SSOP and SSP-PCR methods. Multivariate logistic regression analysis showed that HLA-A*11 (p = 0.027), HLA-A*34 (p = 0.017), HLA-A*69 (p = 0.012), HLA-B*41 (p < 0.001), HLA-B*50 (p = 0.004), HLA-DRB1*10 (p = 0.027), and HLA-DRB1*14 (p = 0.004) were positively associated with ESRD (OR > 1); HLA-DRB1*07 (p < 0.001), HLA-DRB1*08 (p = 0.005), and HLA-DRB1*13 (p < 0.001) were protective against ESRD (OR < 1); and the three-locus haplotype HLA-A*02-B*41-DRB1*03, containing one susceptible allele, was strongly associated with ESRD (p < 0.001, OR = 3.15). In conclusion, this retrospective analysis of HLA typing in patients with ESRD of various etiologies suggests that molecular data on the HLA polymorphism should be collected in order to identify high-risk ESRD patients and to improve graft survival after kidney transplantation.

Fatal Form of COVID-19 in a Young Male Bodybuilder Anabolic Steroid Using: The First Autopsied Case.

We report the case of a 34-year-old male patient, a bodybuilding trainer and user of anabolic androgenic steroids (AASs) for 16 years. He was found in cardio-respiratory arrest in his home. By performing a medico-legal autopsy, a severe form of COVID-19, aortic atherosclerotic plaques, and an old myocardial infarction was found. The SARS-CoV-2 RT-PCR test on necroptic lung fragments was positive, with a B.1.258 genetic line. The histopathological examinations showed microthrombi with endothelitis in the cerebral tissue, massive pulmonary edema, diffuse alveolar damage grade 1, pulmonary thromboembolism, hepatic peliosis, and severe nesidioblastosis. The immunohistochemical examinations showed SARS-CoV-2 positive in the myocardium, lung, kidneys, and pancreas. ACE-2 receptor was positive in the same organs, but also in the spleen and liver. HLA alleles A*03, A*25, B*18, B*35, C*04, C*12, DRB1*04, DRB1*15, DQB1*03, DQB1*06 were also identified. In conclusion, death was due to a genetic predisposition, a long-term abuse of AASs that favored the development of a pluriorganic pathological tissue terrain, and recent consumption of AASs, which influenced the immune system at the time of infection.

Association between HLA class II alleles and hepatitis B virus infection in Transylvania, Romania.

Infection with hepatitis B virus (HBV) is a major problem worldwide. The major histocompatibility complex plays an essential role in host immunity and can help eliminate the HBV of infected hepatocytes. Our study aimed to determine the role of certain human leukocyte antigen (HLA) class II molecules (i.e. HLA-DRB1 and HLA-DQB1) in the persistence or removal of HBV. Sixty patients confirmed to be HBV-positive via real-time polymerase chain reaction (PCR), i.e. people with chronic active hepatitis, were included in the study along with a control group of 100 healthy individuals without evidence of HBV infection. The DNA was subsequently used to determine HLA-DRB1 and HLA-DQB1 low-resolution typing genetic profile via PCR amplification. The univariate analysis performed revealed significant association of the HLA-DRB1*03 and HLA-DQB1*05 alleles to the infected persons (study group), while HLA-DRB1*01 was shown to be protective against HBV infection. To our knowledge, this is the first Romanian study associating HLA with HBV, and it can provide valuable insight concerning the relationship between genetic factors and immune response in the sampled population.

Antibacterial activity of different natural honeys from Transylvania, Romania.

Honey is used in food industry and medicine due to its nutritive, therapeutic and dietetic qualities. The microbiological characteristics of 10 unpasteurized honey samples of known origin, collected from Transylvania beekeepers (Romania) were determined. The antibacterial activity of these types of honey against Escherichia coli, Staphylococcus aureus, Staphylococcus epidermidis, Salmonella enteritidis, Salmonella anatum, Salmonella choleraesuis, Bacillus cereus, Bacillus subtilis subsp. spizizenii and Listeria monocytogenes strains was studied. The most sensitive to the antibacterial activity were the two staphylococus strains (the largest diameter of inhibition zone was 18 mm) and B. subtilis strains (13.5 mm). The strains of B. cereus, E. coli, L. monocytogenes and Salmonella spp. were found to present resistance to some of the honey samples. Manna, sunflower and polyfloral honeys presented high antibacterial activity while acacia and linden honeys had a lower activity in terms of the number of sensible strains. Statistical analysis shows that the type of strains and the type of honey have influence on the diameter of inhibition.

Dyadic Adjustment of Couples and State Anxiety in Patients Tested for Sexually Transmitted Infections.

Background: While existing literature addresses the psychological impact of HIV, there is a notable gap in data regarding other sexually transmitted infections (STIs). This study aims to fill this gap by evaluating the association between STIs, the psychological profile of patients as measured by anxiety levels, and the impact on couple adaptability. Methods: A prospective investigation was conducted in Romania, from November 2021, including individuals with high suspicion of STI and healthy controls. Data collection comprised a questionnaire, the Dyadic Adjustment Scale (DAS), and State-Trait Anxiety Inventory (STAI Y-1). Statistical methods, including multivariate logistic and linear regressions, were used to carry out the analyses. Results: The participant cohort consisted of 441 individuals. STI participants exhibited consistently lower DAS scores, notably in dyadic adaptability (DA) (p = 0.031), dyadic satisfaction (DS) (p = 0.006), and affectional expression (AE) (p = 0.016). Multivariate logistic regression with adjustment for confounders confirmed a significant association between STIs and atypical DAS responses (2.56-fold increase). STAI T scores were significantly higher in the STI suspected group (p < 0.01), remaining robust after adjusting for confounders in a multiple linear regression model. Conclusions: Our prospectively designed study highlights the mental health repercussions associated with STIs. This is evident through the diminished DAS scores and heightened STAI Y-1 scores observed in individuals with suspected STIs.

HLA Class II Allele Groups Involved in Autoimmune Thyroid Diseases: Hashimoto's Thyroiditis and Basedow-Graves Disease.

Autoimmune thyroid diseases (AITD), particularly Hashimoto's thyroiditis (HT) and Basedow-Graves disease (BGD) are diseases of global public health concern, characterized by autoimmune attacks on the thyroid gland, leading to hypothyroidism in HT and hyperthyroidism in BGD. We conducted a study between 2019 and 2021 in northwestern Transylvania (Romania) on patients with HT and with BGD compared to the control group. The aim of the study was to investigate the correlations of HLA class II alleles with AITD by identifying potential genetic susceptibility factors such as HLA-DRB1 and HLA-DQB1 genes in patients diagnosed with HT and BGD. Various molecular biology methods, including SSP-PCR low-resolution and PCR-SSO were employed to analyze DNA samples from patients and control subjects. Our study revealed the influence of the HLA-DRB1*03/*16 genotype as a genetic susceptibility factor for HT, a similar influence regarding BGD being observed for the HLA-DRB1*03 allele group, DRB1*03/*16 genotype, and the DRB1*03/DQB1*06 haplotype. The only protective factor detected in our study was the HLA-DRB1*13 allele group, for both HT and BGD. By elucidating any specific allele or genotype associations that might contribute to the development of AITD, our study can contribute to the prevention and early detection of these diseases.

Challenges of Secondary Glaucoma Management Following Congenital Cataract Surgery, Penetrating Keratoplasty and Vitreoretinal Surgery.

Glaucoma is one of the world's leading causes of irreversible vision loss. It is often asymptomatic until it reaches an advanced stage, which can have a significant impact on patients' daily lives. This paper describes the case of a 50-year-old female patient who presented with acute onset of ocular pain, photophobia, and loss of visual acuity in her right eye (RE). The patient's medical history includes congenital cataracts, surgical aphakia, nystagmus, strabismus, amblyopia, and secondary glaucoma. Ophthalmological examination showed BCVA RE-hand movement, left eye (LE)-0.08 with an intraocular pressure (IOP) of 30 mmHg in RE and 16 mmHg in LE. Biomicroscopic examination of RE showed corneal graft, epithelial and endothelial edema, endothelial precipitates, corneal neovascularization, aphakia, and Ahmed valve superotemporally. Despite maximal topical and systemic treatment, Ahmed valve, and trabeculectomy, secondary glaucoma in the right eye remained refractory. Reimplantation of an Ahmed valve was performed. This resulted in a favorable outcome with increased visual acuity and controlled intraocular pressure. The combination of aphakia, penetrating keratoplasty, and secondary glaucoma is a challenge for any surgeon. It is important that both the perioperative risks and the possible complications are carefully assessed in each patient, especially if associated pathology is present.

Neutrophil to lymphocyte ratio, platelet to lymphocyte ratio, lymphocyte to monocyte ratio and Systemic Inflammatory Index in sexually transmitted diseases.

Introduction: Hematologic biomarkers of inflammation may serve as valuable adjuncts in clinical practice, aiding in several aspects such as differential diagnosis, prognostic assessment for patient stratification and monitoring the efficacy of antimicrobial therapy. The aim of this study was to evaluate the efficacy of Neutrophil to Lymphocyte Ratio (NLR), Platelet to Lymphocyte Ratio (PLR), Lymphocyte to Monocyte Ratio (LMR), and Systemic Inflammatory Index (SII) in predicting bacterial sexually transmitted infections (STI). Methods: This prospective study was conducted in the north-west region of Romania and included patients from several medical special units such as dermatology, obstetrics-gynecology, urology, and general practice. The study group comprised patients with a high suspicion of STI, while the control group consisted of healthy subjects. Quantitative data are presented as medians (interquartile ranges). Results: The median values of SII, NLR, and SIRI were higher in the group of subjects with sexually transmitted diseases compared to the control group [604.06 (432.36 - 880.02) vs. 556.89 (388.63 - 874.19); 2.61 (1.57 - 3.3) vs. 2.29 (1.66 - 3.26); and 0.95 (0.53 - 1.52) vs. 0.89 (0.67 - 1.34)]. Regarding PLR, the median values were lower in the group of subjects with sexually transmitted diseases compared to the control group [138.1 (99.19 - 169.6) vs. 140.65 (117 - 190.32)]. As for LMR, the median values were equal between the two groups [4.64 (3.74 - 6.11) vs. 4.64 (3.75 - 5.45)]. Nevertheless, the differences did not reach the significance level. Conclusion: Our study suggests that inflammatory biomarkers might aid in detecting bacterial STIs, but their significance was not statistically confirmed. Further research on alternative laboratory tests is needed for improved STI diagnosis and management.

Are single nucleotide polymorphisms in the IL-2 gene biomarkers for Hashimoto's thyroiditis?

Background and aims: Hashimoto's thyroiditis (HT) is an autoimmune disorder that can lead to hypothyroidism. The pathophysiology of HT involves the production of antithyroid antibodies that attack the thyroid tissue, causing inflammation and progressive fibrosis. Recent studies demonstrated a strong correlation between Interleukin-2 (IL-2) levels and the development of autoimmune diseases, suggesting that this cytokine may play a crucial role in the pathogenesis of HT. Methods: In this study, we determined the presence of the point mutation +114T/G in the IL-2 gene in patients with HT compared with a control group, and also the serum level of anti-thyroid peroxidase (TPOAbs) and anti-thyroglobulin (TgAbs) antibodies in HT patients with vs. without the mutation. The sequences of the IL-2 gene obtained from subjects were determined by the Sanger sequencing method. Results: Our study did not reveal that the +114T/G polymorphism of the IL-2 gene is a susceptibility or protective factor for HT. No significant correlations were observed between the reference genotype, hetero- and homozygous +114T/G polymorphism and TPOAbs, respectively TgAbs serum levels in HT patients. Conclusions: Further studies of more cases are needed to identify more polymorphisms in the IL-2 gene and study their correlations with HT.

Chlamydia trachomatis and the HLA involvement in the development of infection and disease: a narrative review.

Introduction: CT (Chlamydia trachomatis) is among the most common pathogens leading to sexually transmitted diseases. Considering the uncertain mechanism by which HLA polymorphisms influence the CT infection, reinfection, comorbidities or evolution and because there is no consensus regarding the alleles involved in the pathogenesis of the infection, we considered necessary to perform a review to summarize the current knowledge of HLA related to CT. Methods: Pubmed was researched using key terms. Out of the 198 results found, we analyzed articles of all types which describe how the MHC, through HLA alleles, participates in the different stages of CT penetration in the body, including studies about cells or other molecules involved in the process. Results: Almost 40% of the variation in the clinical course of CT infection depends on host genetic factors. There are haplotypes that influence the infection susceptibility/resistance, haplotypes that are involved in the recurrence of the infection, haplotypes that are related to tubal infertility, pelvic inflammatory disease development or trachoma. Antibody to Chsp60 (influenced by MHC genes) has been observed to correlate with late tissue-damaging sequelae. Toll-like receptors were found to increase the susceptibility to CT. The association of HLA-B27 creates susceptibility of reactive arthritis in the organisms infected by CT, but does not influence the carriage of CT. Conclusion: We identified HLA haplotypes belonging both to MHC class l and ll, which influence different stages of CT infection. Genetic risk factors still need research, especially on Caucasians. Studies are moving towards designing a safe and effective vaccine.

Impact of the COVID-19 Pandemic on the Suicidal Behavior in Romania.

Suicide rates reflect the mental health status in certain countries or regions. As the COVID-19 infection developed as a pandemic and governments imposed certain measures to stop the spread of the virus, mental health was affected worldwide. Romania was no exception as the government issued a complete lockdown with restriction regarding travels, social gatherings, transition to working from home and others. The increase in the rate of unemployment, the difficulties in accessing the health services and the social distancing generated by the restrictions had a major impact on lifestyle with a potential surge of psychiatric disorders, with or without history of illness. In this study, we analyzed the changes in regard to the number of suicides and suicide attempts as well as the methods employed and the underlying psychiatric pathology in Cluj County, Romania, throughout the first year of the pandemic. The results had not revealed changes in the overall suicide rate, but in the case of mild cognitive disorders and dementia the suicide figures increased, while a decrease was observed in the number of suicides related to substance use disorders. The long-term effects of the pandemic remain unknown, but there is a clear impact on mental health and measures should be taken in order to prevent suicides.

The C55A Single Nucleotide Polymorphism in CTLA-4 Gene, a New Possible Biomarker in Thyroid Autoimmune Pathology Such as Hashimoto's Thyroiditis.

Hashimoto's thyroiditis (HT) is a chronic autoimmune disorder characterized by the production of autoantibodies against the thyroid gland. Different studies have shown that several genes may be associated with HT, which explains why patients often have family members with thyroiditis or other autoimmune diseases. The aim of this case-control study was to evaluate the correlation between polymorphisms at the level of exon 1 from the CTLA-4 gene and the susceptibility to developing HT. In this study, we found that there is no statistically significant association between the polymorphism rs231775 (A22G in exon 1) of the CTLA-4 gene and a genetic predisposition to HT. In contrast, a strong association was discovered for the first time between C55A in exon 1 of the CTLA-4 gene and HT. Our findings suggest that there is a genetic relationship between the CTLA-4 (+55A/C) genotype and the seropositivity against thyroid autoantigens, such as anti-thyroid peroxidase (ATPO) and anti-thyroglobulin antibodies (ATG).

Risk factors for suicidal behavior: A Romanian mixed methods study.

OBJECTIVES: This study had two purposes: to explore the main socio-demographic and medical characteristics of the psychiatric patients with a history of suicidal behavior, and to identify the main risk factors underlying the suicidal ideation and acts among psychiatric patients, in the light of two recent theories of suicidal behavior. METHODS: The study is based on a mixed methodological design. During 2019 to 2021, 65 hospitalized psychiatric patients, who committed at least one non-lethal suicide attempt, were investigated using a questionnaire a scales for data collection. Medical records were used to gather data about certain socio-demographic characteristics and the health status of the respondents. Patients also participated in a narrative interview aimed at disclosing their subjective experiences about their past suicidal behavior. RESULTS: The typical psychiatric patient with a history of suicidal behavior, as highlighted by the quantitative analysis, portraits a young old male from an urban environment, childless, educated, having experienced employment problems, being involved in religious activities. The clinical picture of the patient with suicidal antecedents included a moderate or severe level of depression, the presence of socio-emotional loneliness, the manifestation of frequent and long episodes of suicidal ideation, and the intention of committing suicide in order to stop the pain, whose acts resulted in minor injuries. Findings from the qualitative data revealed four major risk factors for the non-lethal suicidal attempts: family disruptions and social problems; economic burdens; a mixture of psychiatric pathologies; and, to a lesser extent, somatic pathologies. CONCLUSION: This study is the first to explore the triggers of suicide acts conducted in a clinical environment in the Balkan region. Implications of the pandemic are also discussed. The findings are useful for designing prevention strategies based on individual psychotherapy and therapeutic or support groups, addressing the main risk factors behind the suicidal ideation and gestures.

Applications of Romanian Propolis in Phyto-Inhibitory Activity and Antimicrobial Protection: A Comparative Study.

Propolis use in medicine, pharmaceutical, cosmetic, and food industries is well known. This study aimed to investigate propolis' phyto-inhibitory and antimicrobial potential. Nine propolis samples obtained from distinct Romanian regions and characterized in terms of physical-chemical parameters, phenols and flavonoid contents, and antioxidant properties were prepared as dry propolis and aqueous extracts. The phyto-inhibitory effect was comparatively tested on different cereals: hexaploid bread wheat (Triticum aestivum), maize (Zea mays L.), oats (Avena sativa L.), and barley (Hordeum vulgare L.), while their in vitro antimicrobial activity was evaluated against bacterial and fungal strains specific to cereals: Bacillus subtilis, B. cereus, Proteus mirabilis, Fusarium oxysporum, Penicillium chrysogenum, and Aspergillus niger. All propolis samples showed a phyto-inhibitory effect on the cereals, the most pronounced being corn and oats. Propolis powder samples displayed a lower phyto-inhibitory activity than propolis extracts. Also, all tested products showed inhibitory efficacy against both bacteria and fungi. Furthermore, principal component analysis showed differences between the samples' phyto-inhibitory and antimicrobial properties depending on the geographical origin. Positive correlations were found between the polyphenols, flavonoid content, and antioxidant activity, respectively. These data support propolis' phyto-pharmaceutical potential related to its use in plant crop management as an alternative in ecological agriculture.

Histopathological Lung Findings in COVID-19 B.1.617.2 SARS-CoV-2 Delta Variant.

BACKGROUND: The Delta variant (Pango lineage B.1.617.2) is one of the most significant and aggressive variants of SARS-CoV-2. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first paper specifically studying pulmonary morphopathology in COVID-19 caused by the B.1.617.2 Delta variant. METHODS: The study included 10 deceased patients (40-83 years) with the COVID-19 Delta variant. The necrotic lung fragments were obtained either by biopsy (six cases) or autopsy (four cases). Tissue samples were subjected to virology analysis for identification of the SARS-CoV-2 variant, histopathology, and immunohistochemistry (anti-SARS coronavirus mouse anti-virus antibody). RESULTS: Virology analysis identified B.1.617.2 through genetic sequencing in eight cases, and in two cases, specific mutations of B.1.617.2 were identified. Macroscopically, in all autopsied cases, the lung had a particular appearance, purple in color, with increased consistency on palpation and abolished crepitations. Histopathologically, the most frequently observed lesions were acute pulmonary edema (70%) and diffuse alveolar damage at different stages. The immunohistochemical examination was positive for proteins of SARS-CoV-2 in 60% of cases on alveolocytes and in endothelial cells. CONCLUSIONS: The histopathological lung findings in the B.1.617.2 Delta variant are similar to those previously described in COVID-19. Spike protein-binding antibodies were identified immunohistochemically both on alveolocytes and in the endothelial cells, showing the potential of indirect damage from thrombosis.

Examining the Prevalence and Antibiotic Susceptibility of S. aureus Strains in Hospitals: An Analysis of the pvl Gene and Its Co-Occurrence with Other Virulence Factors.

S. aureus is a pathogenic bacterium that causesinfections. Its virulence is due to surface components, proteins, virulence genes, SCCmec, pvl, agr, and SEs, which are low molecular weight superantigens. SEs are usually encoded by mobile genetic elements, and horizontal gene transfer accounts for their widespread presence in S. aureus. This study analyzed the prevalence of MRSA and MSSA strains of S. aureus in two hospitals in Greece between 2020-2022 and their susceptibility to antibiotics. Specimens collected were tested using the VITEK 2 system and the PCR technique to detect SCCmec types, agr types, pvl genes, and sem and seg genes. Antibiotics from various classes were also tested. This study examined the prevalence and resistance of S. aureus strains in hospitals. It found a high prevalence of MRSA and that the MRSA strains were more resistant to antibiotics. The study also identified the genotypes of the S. aureus isolates and the associated antibiotic resistances. This highlights the need for continued surveillance and effective strategies to combat the spread of MRSA in hospitals. This study examined the prevalence of the pvl gene and its co-occurrence with other genes in S. aureus strains, as well as their antibiotic susceptibility. The results showed that 19.15% of the isolates were pvl-positive and 80.85% were pvl-negative. The pvl gene co-existed with other genes, such as the agr and enterotoxin genes. The results could inform treatment strategies for S. aureus infections.

Bilateral Serous Retinal Detachment as a Complication of HELLP Syndrome.

HELLP syndrome is a pregnancy complication, putting at risk the life of mother and child, characterized by high blood pressure, elevated liver enzymes and low platelets. Serous retinal detachment is a rare complication of pregnancy and may be associated with HELLP syndrome. One of the most common symptoms is a decrease in visual acuity. A rare case of bilateral exudative retinal detachment associated with HELLP syndrome is described in a 38-year-old woman a few hours after delivery. Optical coherence tomography (OCT) showed an amount of subretinal fluid and macular edema. Use of systemic corticosteroids and careful management of blood pressure led to early resolution of subretinal fluid and a good recovery of vision. Her final best corrected visual acuity was 1 (decimal notation) in both eyes at 2 weeks after delivery. These types of cases are rarely reported and highlight the importance of increasing awareness of this pathology among ophthalmologists.

Post-Traumatic Cilia Remaining Inert in the Posterior Chamber for 50 Years.

Intraocular foreign body injuries (IOFB) can lead to a number of intraocular pathologies; the visual results depend on the mechanism of the injury, the type of foreign body and the subsequent complications. The presence of intraocular cilia (eye lashes) following penetrating injury or surgical intervention is uncommon. In the present paper, we present a case of a 58-year-old woman with a history of eye trauma and a perforated corneal wound in the left eye that occurred 50 years ago. On the ophthalmological exam we noticed in the anterior chamber a straight linear extension, resembling cilia, extending behind the iris. The patient reports that it appeared during COVID-19 infection, after repeated episodes of coughing. After a follow-up period, we decided to remove the eyelash; 24 h after surgery, the patient complained of severe eye pain. Intraocular pressure (IOP) in LE was 54 mmHg. The slit-lamp examination showed perikeratic congestion, corneal edema and mydriasis. Eye hypotensive treatment was started immediately and the patient's general condition slightly improved. Intraocular cilia can be tolerated for many years without causing any ocular reaction. The decision for surgical intervention must be taken according to the individual needs of the patient and his ocular characteristics with careful pre- and post-operative follow up.