Amniotic Membrane-Assisted Corneal Transplantation in Ocular Perforation Due to GVHD: A Case Report

TL;DR

A new technique using amniotic membrane during corneal transplants helped successfully treat a rare eye condition caused by a stem cell transplant complication.

Contribution

A novel amniotic membrane-assisted 'envelope' technique was used to manage corneal perforation due to ocular graft-versus-host disease.

Findings

The amniotic membrane provided a biological barrier that supported graft stability and epithelial healing.

The graft remained clear and stable for 12 months with a visual acuity of 20/40.

The technique reduced rejection risk and may delay the need for keratoprosthesis in refractory cases.

Abstract

Background/Objectives: Ocular graft-versus-host disease (oGVHD) is a chronic, immune-mediated complication of allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation that can progress to corneal ulceration or perforation. These cases are often refractory to standard therapy and present a high risk of graft failure after keratoplasty. We report a case of oGVHD-related corneal perforation successfully managed with a novel amniotic membrane-assisted “envelope” technique during corneal transplantation. Case Report: A 42-year-old man with chronic oGVHD and a full-thickness corneal perforation underwent urgent repair with a lamellar patch graft completely wrapped in cryopreserved amniotic membrane, followed by penetrating keratoplasty (PKP) using an amniotic membrane envelope surrounding the donor lenticule. Results: The amniotic membrane provided a 360° biological barrier that isolated graft antigens from the inflammatory environment while supporting epithelial healing and stromal remodeling. Despite recurrent inflammatory episodes and multiple procedures—including cataract extraction, pars plana vitrectomy, and multilayer amniotic membrane transplantation—the graft remained clear and stable at 12-month follow-up, achieving a best-corrected visual acuity of 20/40. Conclusions: The amniotic membrane envelope technique may represent a valuable adjunct in managing high-risk corneal perforations secondary to oGVHD. By combining immune modulation and regenerative support, this approach can enhance tectonic stability, reduce rejection risk, and promote durable surface recovery, potentially delaying or avoiding keratoprosthesis in refractory cases.

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