Related Experiment Videos
Cold-induced corneal edema in patients with trigeminal nerve dysfunction
K H Baratz1, S D Trocme, W M Bourne
1Department of Ophthalmology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN 55905.
American Journal of Ophthalmology
|November 15, 1991
Summary
Sensory denervation can cause cold-induced corneal edema in anesthetic corneas. These eyes are colder and more susceptible to swelling and increased permeability after cold exposure.
Area of Science:
- Ophthalmology
- Neuroscience
Background:
- Cold-induced corneal edema is rare, previously reported in patients with corneal anesthesia from trigeminal nerve disorders.
- Trigeminal ablation can lead to complete unilateral corneal anesthesia.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the effects of cold exposure on corneal edema, temperature, and endothelial permeability in patients with trigeminal ablation-induced corneal anesthesia.
Main Methods:
- Six patients with unilateral corneal anesthesia underwent controlled cold air exposure (4°C) for one hour.
- Measurements included corneal thickness, surface temperature, and endothelial permeability to fluorescein.
Main Results:
- Two of six anesthetic corneas showed reversible swelling (11-26%).
- Anesthetic corneas were significantly colder (13.8°C) than contralateral corneas (21.0°C).
- Cold exposure increased endothelial permeability in anesthetic corneas compared to controls.
Conclusions:
- Sensory denervation impacts ocular temperature regulation and corneal endothelial cell morphology.
- Anesthetic corneas are prone to cold-induced edema due to excessive cooling and increased permeability.