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Avellino corneal dystrophy exacerbated after LASIK: scanning electron microscopic findings
Mi In Roh1, Hans E Grossniklaus, So-Hyang Chung
1Institute of Vision Research, Department of Ophthalmology, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seodaemun-ku, Seoul, Korea.
Cornea
|April 25, 2006
Summary
Laser eye surgery (LASIK) worsens Avellino corneal dystrophy (ACD) by causing abnormal collagen and granular deposits in the cornea. This study examined corneal flaps from ACD patients after LASIK.
Area of Science:
- Ophthalmology
- Corneal Diseases
- Surgical Technology
Background:
- Avellino corneal dystrophy (ACD) is a rare genetic disorder affecting the cornea.
- Laser-assisted in situ keratomileusis (LASIK) is a common refractive surgery.
- Exacerbation of ACD after LASIK presents unique clinical challenges.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the ultrastructural changes in the cornea of Avellino corneal dystrophy (ACD) patients following LASIK.
- To evaluate the impact of LASIK on corneal collagen and granular deposits in ACD.
Main Methods:
- Surgical removal of corneal flaps from three ACD patients experiencing post-LASIK exacerbation.
- Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) analysis of the excised corneal flaps.
Main Results:
- SEM revealed abnormal granular clusters within the corneal flap fibrils in all examined patients.
- Evidence of corneal collagen abnormalities and adhesions of granular material was observed.
Conclusions:
- LASIK can induce significant corneal collagen abnormalities in ACD patients.
- Adhesions of granular material are a notable finding in ACD corneas post-LASIK.
- These findings highlight potential risks of LASIK in patients with specific corneal dystrophies.