Methamphetamine-Induced Keratitis Case Series

Abstract

Methamphetamine-induced keratitis is a recognized but not widely studied cause of corneal stromalysis and infections. These 2 cases describe the presentation and clinical course of keratitis in patients with preceding methamphetamine use.

Ophthalmic complications associated with methamphetamine use disorder

“…Direct effects encompass phenomena such as catecholamine release, vasoconstriction, increased pain threshold, and decreased blink reflex. 7 Route-related effects include smoke-related eye irritation and hand-to-eye exposure. 2 While the presence of multiple underlying comorbidities could have contributed to the presentations described in this report, the temporal association between active methamphetamine use and acute corneal findings, along with the mechanism of action of methamphetamine, strengthens the concerning relationship between methamphetamine use and ophthalmic disease.…”

Vision health perspectives on Breaking Bad: Ophthalmic sequelae of methamphetamine use disorder

“…Following the acute phase of intoxication, additional ocular complaints may arise if corneal damage occurs. Patients with keratitis may experience days to weeks of decreased vision, eye pain, photophobia, and redness ( Franco et al, 2022 ). They may also describe irritation or a foreign body sensation.…”

“…Methamphetamine is usually sold in the form of hydrochloride salt, which may cause a chemical burn progressing to epithelial defect, a nidus for infection. Toxic damage to the corneal surface may predispose patients to exposure keratopathy and secondary infection ( Franco et al, 2022 ). A case report describes repeated corneal ulcers in a patient recurring concomitantly with periods of heavy methamphetamine smoking ( Chuck et al, 1996 ).…”