Allograft rejection after living-related simple limbal epithelial transplantation

Abstract

A 23-year-old man presented with congestion, peripheral corneal vascularization, an elevated ridge-like epithelial line and cellular infiltration around limbal transplants, 15 months after undergoing living-related simple limbal epithelial transplantation (SLET) for total limbal stem cell deficiency. A diagnosis of acute allograft rejection was made and he was treated with intravenous methylprednisolone, topical and oral prednisolone as well as systemic cyclosporine and azathioprine, leading to reversal of the signs. Similar findings were noted during a later rejection episode. An epithelial rejection line and cellular infiltration of limbal transplants are easily identifiable clinical signs of allograft rejection post SLET.