Recurrence of Varicella-Zoster Virus Keratitis After SARS-CoV-2 Vaccination

Abstract

Purpose: The purpose of this study was to report a case of acute exacerbation in varicella-zoster virus (VZV) keratitis after SARS-CoV-2 vaccination. Methods: An 87-year-old man, with a history of herpes zoster ophthalmicus 10 years ago, was referred for sudden visual impairment in his left eye that started 2 days after his second dose of SARS-CoV-2 mRNA vaccine BNT162b2. Results: At presentation, his visual acuity was hand motion. Slitlamp examination revealed diffuse corneal stromal edema and nasal stromal infiltration. After treatment for 2 weeks with oral valacyclovir and topical corticosteroids, the problematic lesion was recovered and his visual acuity was restored to 20/30. Conclusions: We believe that this is the first report of possible association between recurrence of VZV keratitis and SARS-CoV-2 vaccination. We believe that T-cell activation by the host response after vaccination may affect the recurrence of VZV keratitis. Physicians should be aware of the potential of recurrence of VZV keratitis associated with the SARS-CoV-2 messenger RNA vaccine.