ABSTRACT
The general history of the patient is helpful in identifying systemic pathologies that may be a contraindication to the laser subepithelial keratomileusis (LASEK) procedure. Relative systemic contraindications that theoretically might affect healing and influence the refractive outcome include: pregnancy, diabetes mellitus, immunocompromise, collagen disorders, e.g., systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) and rheumatoid arthritis, allergies or atopia, systemic infections (HIV or tuberculosis), and systemic medication of certain drugs, such as steroids and hormone replacement therapy.
