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Effect of beta-blocker eyedrops on corneal epithelial barrier function
A Niiya1, N Yokoi, Y Matsumoto
1Department of Ophthalmology, Kyoto Prefectural University of Medicine, Kyoto, Japan. aniiya@eye.opth.kpu-m.ac.jp
Summary
Topical beta-blocker eye drops significantly impair corneal epithelial barrier function in patients. Long-term use did not alter superficial corneal cell area, indicating a specific effect on barrier integrity.
Area of Science:
- Ophthalmology
- Corneal Physiology
- Pharmacology
Background:
- Topical beta-blockers are commonly prescribed for glaucoma and ocular hypertension.
- The long-term effects of these medications on the corneal epithelium require thorough investigation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the long-term impact of topical beta-blocker eyedrops on human corneal epithelial barrier function and superficial cell area.
Main Methods:
- Corneal epithelial barrier function was assessed by measuring fluorescein uptake using a slitlamp fluorophotometer.
- Superficial corneal cell area was measured using tandem scanning confocal microscopy (TSCM).
- Study included healthy volunteers, cataract patients (pyrenoxine), and glaucoma/ocular hypertension patients (timolol maleate).
Main Results:
- Significantly higher fluorescein uptake was observed in the timolol maleate group compared to healthy controls and pyrenoxine users.
- Corneal fluorescein uptake was 76.2 ng/ml in the timolol group versus 20.3 ng/ml in controls.
- No significant differences in superficial corneal cell area were found between the healthy control and timolol groups.
Conclusions:
- Long-term topical application of beta-blocker eyedrops decreases corneal epithelial barrier function.
- This functional impairment occurs without observable changes in the superficial corneal cell area.