Lesions produced by human herpesviruses 1 and 2. Morphologic features in rabbit corneal epithelium

Area of Science:

• Ophthalmology
• Virology
• Cell Biology

Background:

• Corneal lesions can be caused by various pathogens, including herpesviruses.
• Understanding the distinct morphologic features of lesions caused by different viral types is crucial for diagnosis and treatment.
• Human herpesvirus 1 (HH1) and human herpesvirus 2 (HH2) are known to affect ocular tissues.

Purpose of the Study:

• To compare the morphologic characteristics of corneal lesions induced by human herpesvirus 1 and human herpesvirus 2 in rabbits.
• To investigate the healing process of HH1-induced corneal lesions treated with idoxuridine.

Main Methods:

• Light and electron microscopy were employed to examine corneal lesion morphology.
• Scanning electron microscopy provided detailed surface structure analysis.
• Histological examination documented the cellular changes during lesion development and healing.

Main Results:

• Both HH1 and HH2 infections resulted in corneal epithelial cell separation, globular transformation, and removal, leading to central excavations.
• HH2 lesions were characterized by elevated edges, while HH1 lesions exhibited non-elevated edges.
• During HH1 lesion healing, regeneration of the corneal epithelium was observed, with normal cells migrating to cover the damaged area.

Conclusions:

• Distinct morphologic differences exist between HH1 and HH2 corneal lesions in rabbits, primarily in lesion elevation.
• The study provides insights into the cellular mechanisms of herpesvirus-induced keratitis and the potential for epithelial regeneration.
• Idoxuridine treatment facilitated the healing process of HH1-induced corneal lesions.