Persistent monocular iridocristalline pupillary membrane associated with anterior pyramidal cataract and severe ametropia

excimer laser refractive surgery (LASIK)

Authors

  • Andrés Germán Alza Clínica Privada de Ojos Dr. Enrique Alza. La Plata (Buenos Aires), Argentina.

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.70313/2718.7446.v18.n4.458

Keywords:

anterior pyramidal cataract, congenital anomalies of the iris, LASIK, myopia, persistent pupillary membrane, refractive surgery

Abstract

Objective: To describe a case of persistent pupillary membrane associated with anterior pyramidal cataract and severe ametropia, successfully treated with LASIK refractive surgery, and to analyze the available evidence on the relationship between the two conditions.


Case report: A 55-year-old woman, an emergency physician, with persistent pupillary membrane characterized on biomicroscopy by fine avascular and vascularized strands inserted into a lens with an anterior pyramidal cataract. She had significant myopia and astigmatism, with an initial best-corrected visual acuity of LogMAR 0.10. Preoperative studies were normal. LASIK refractive surgery with an excimer laser (WaveLight® EX500, Alcon) was indicated, with satisfactory results: uncorrected visual acuity of LogMAR 0.10 at one year follow-up, without complications and with full patient satisfaction.

Conclusion: Persistent iridocristalline pupillary membrane is a rare congenital anomaly that rarely contraindicates refractive surgery. There are no documented reports linking it to LASIK, nor is it considered a specific risk factor. In asymptomatic adults with significant ametropia, LASIK may be a valid alternative provided that the usual safety parameters are met.

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References

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Published

2025-12-22

Issue

Section

Case Report

How to Cite

1.
Alza AG. Persistent monocular iridocristalline pupillary membrane associated with anterior pyramidal cataract and severe ametropia: excimer laser refractive surgery (LASIK). Oftalmol. Clín. Exp. 2025;18(4):e499-e520. doi:10.70313/2718.7446.v18.n4.458

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