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Incidence and risk factors of corneal epithelial defects in mechanically ventilated children

Eliane M Germano1, Maria Julia G Mello, Dayse Figueredo Sena

  • 1Instituto Materno Infantil Prof. Fernando Figueira, Recife, Brazil.

Critical Care Medicine
|February 25, 2009
PubMed

Insights

A significant number of children on mechanical ventilation (MV) developed corneal defects, with open eyes and sepsis being key risk factors. Early detection within the first week of MV is crucial for managing these eye complications.

Area of Science:

  • Ophthalmology
  • Pediatric Intensive Care
  • Critical Care Medicine

Background:

  • Mechanical ventilation (MV) is a critical intervention for critically ill children.
  • Corneal defects are a potential complication in patients requiring intensive care.
  • Understanding risk factors for corneal defects in pediatric patients on MV is essential for prevention and management.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To determine the incidence of corneal defects in children undergoing mechanical ventilation.
  • To identify the primary risk factors associated with the development of corneal defects in this population.

Main Methods:

  • A cohort study evaluated 53 children exposed to mechanical ventilation.
  • Daily corneal evaluations were performed using fluorescein testing and a portable slit lamp.
  • Multivariate logistic regression analysis identified prognostic factors for corneal defects.

Main Results:

  • Twenty-five percent of children on MV developed corneal defects.
  • Defects were often bilateral (54%) and frequently occurred within the first week (69%) or 48 hours (46%) of ventilation.
  • Open eyes and sepsis were identified as significant risk factors in multivariate analysis.

Conclusions:

  • The incidence of corneal defects in pediatric patients on MV is high (25%).
  • Maintaining open eyes and the presence of sepsis are significant risk factors for corneal defects.
  • Findings are consistent with observations in adult patients requiring mechanical ventilation.
Abstract

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