Spontaneous Partial Regression of Bilateral Grade III Corneal Dermoids Associated With Fetal Valproate Spectrum Disorder

Purpose: The purpose of this study was to describe a rare case of a child with bilateral central corneal dermoids (grade III) in association with fetal valproate spectrum disorder (FVSD) and to report the spontaneous regression of these tumors. Methods: Clinical records of a 14-month-old child whose mother took sodium valproate all along her pregnancy were retrospectively reviewed. The diagnosis of FVSD was made based on phenotypic features and associated congenital malformations. Facial features included trigonocephaly, flat nose bridge and small upturned nose, cleft palate and lip, and micrognathia. Systemic anomalies included bilateral radial defects and club hands, pes equinovarus, hypospadias, secundum atrial septal defect, patent ductus arteriosus, and aortic insufficiency. Cytogenetic studies were normal. Results: Ocular findings included bilateral central corneal dermoids sparing the limbus and peripheral cornea, bilateral aphakia, absence of left anterior chamber, and bilateral mass-like vitreal opacities. A computed tomography scan suggested minimal left microphthalmia. Owing to the high-risk category for general anesthesia and prioritization of other severe systemic anomalies, no ocular surgical intervention was performed. Over 5 years of follow-up, spontaneous partial regression of the corneal tumors was observed. Conclusions: The development of bilateral grade III corneal dermoids in a child with FVSD may be more than fortuitous and enlarges the list of ocular anomalies associated with FVSD. Corneal dermoids may regress spontaneously.

Automated summary

This study describes a rare case of a child with bilateral central corneal dermoids in association with fetal valproate spectrum disorder (FVSD) and reports the spontaneous regression of these tumors.