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Updated: Feb 2, 2026

Author Spotlight: Decoding Corneal Neovascularization with Alkali Burn Model for Future Therapeutic Strategies
Published on: June 30, 2023
Propranolol eye drops in patients with corneal neovascularization
Luca Filippi1, Cinzia de Libero2, Barbara Zamma Gallarati2
1Neonatal Intensive Care Unit, Medical Surgical Fetal-Neonatal Department.
Rationale:
Studies performed in animal models of corneal neovascularization suggested the possible efficacy of a treatment with propranolol. Corneal neovascularization is one of the most feared complications of Stevens-Johnson syndrome that frequently involves ocular surface. We report the first 2 patients with severe ocular neo-vascularization treated with different degrees of success, with propranolol eye drops.
Patient Concerns:
Two patients with corneal neovascularization complicating the Stevens-Johnson syndrome, not responsive to steroids and cyclosporine, were treated with propranolol eye drops.
Diagnoses:
Corneal neovascularization was detected by ophthalmoscopic evaluation.
Interventions:
Topical treatment with propranolol eye drops at different concentrations.
Outcomes:
Both patients reported dramatic subjective benefits (reduction of photophobia and discomfort) without adverse effects, and in the patient with a less advanced disease, an objective reduction of neovascularization and an improved visual acuity was observed.
Lessons:
This experience suggests that propranolol might be an inexpensive, safe and effective treatment in counteracting the progression of corneal neovascularization.
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