[Corneal Cross-Linking with Riboflavin and UVA in Keratoconus]

Area of Science:

• Ophthalmology
• Biomedical Engineering
• Materials Science

Background:

• Corneal ectatic diseases involve detrimental changes in the cornea's biomechanical properties.
• Reduced biomechanical resistance in the cornea is a hallmark of various pathological conditions.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate corneal collagen cross-linking (CXL) as a therapeutic intervention for corneal ectasia.
• To assess the efficacy of CXL in altering corneal biomechanical properties and halting disease progression.

Main Methods:

• Administration of riboflavin (vitamin B2) followed by exposure to ultraviolet A light (UVA).
• Induction of reactive oxygen species to form covalent bonds between collagen molecules, enhancing corneal stiffness.

Main Results:

• Prospective, randomized studies demonstrate significant changes in corneal tissue properties following CXL.
• CXL is the only etiological treatment capable of delaying or halting cornea destabilization, thereby reducing keratoplasty rates.

Conclusions:

• Corneal collagen cross-linking shows potential as a treatment for ectatic corneal diseases.
• Further research is needed to confirm long-term safety and the duration of the stabilizing effect of CXL.