Issue 8/2022
I. Andreev
SBOBAL – Varna, Medical University – Varna
Aim: To evaluate the efficacy and safety of the use of CXL with forthcoming transplantation of amniotic membrane for cases infectious keratitis which are not affected by conservative treatment and characterized by fast corneal melting and high risk of perforation. Materials and methods: Nineteen patients with unilateral infectious keratitis characterized by various etiology for a period of one year for evaluation have been included in the clinical analysis. Evaluation is based on best corrected visual acuity, slit lamp with camera, anterior segment OCT as well as anterior segment OCT integrated in 3D surgical Zeiss Artevo 800 microscope in operating room. The clinical results have been evaluated before and during the period of observance. Results: All patients exhibit fast reduction of the symptoms and reduced size of the infiltrates upon implementation of CXL with forthcoming transplantation of amniotic membrane. In 8 of the cases a second transplantation was necessary within a period of 4 to 8 days after the initial one. The signs of infection and inflammation fade mostly in the timeline of about 2 weeks after the treatment. Conclusions: The implementation of CXL and complementary transplantation of amniotic membrane has definitely a positive effect in the treatment of infectious keratitis with an aggressive and uncontrollable course of development. The treatment appears safe and effective and should be considered a part of the first line therapy in cases of aggressive infectious keratitis.
Address for correspondence:
I. Andreev
SBOBAL – Varna, Medical University – Varna
15, Doiran, Str.
9002, Varna, Bulgaria