The Effects of Riboflavin/Ultraviolet: A Corneal Cross-Linking on the Signs and Symptoms of Bullous Keratopathy
2011

Effects of Corneal Cross-Linking on Bullous Keratopathy

Sample size: 20 publication Evidence: moderate

Author Information

Author(s): Gharaee Hamid, Ansari-Astaneh Mohammad-Reza, Armanfar Fatemeh

Primary Institution: Mashhad University of Medical Science

Hypothesis

Corneal cross-linking can improve the signs and symptoms of bullous keratopathy.

Conclusion

Corneal cross-linking is not effective for improving visual acuity or central corneal thickness in bullous keratopathy, but it may alleviate irritation and discomfort.

Supporting Evidence

  • 83.3% of patients reported improvement in burning symptoms after 6 months.
  • 75.0% of patients reported improvement in pain after 6 months.
  • 66.7% of patients reported improvement in foreign body sensation after 6 months.
  • Persistent epithelial defect occurred in 25% of patients but resolved with treatment.

Takeaway

This study looked at whether a treatment called corneal cross-linking helps people with a painful eye condition. It found that while it doesn't help vision, it can make some of the pain go away.

Methodology

This was a prospective non-randomized case series evaluating 20 eyes with bullous keratopathy that underwent corneal cross-linking, with follow-ups at multiple intervals.

Limitations

The study did not show significant improvement in visual acuity or corneal clarity, and the sample size may limit the generalizability of the results.

Participant Demographics

Mean age of participants was 66.4 years, with various etiologies for bullous keratopathy including pseudophakia and failed grafts.

Statistical Information

Statistical Significance

p>0.05

Digital Object Identifier (DOI)

10.4103/0974-9233.75889

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