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Topical Tacrolimus in Thygeson Superficial Punctate Keratitis
Samir S Shoughy1, Khalid F Tabbara1,2
1The Eye Center and the Eye Foundation for Research in Ophthalmology, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia; and.
Cornea
|December 17, 2019
Summary
Topical tacrolimus 0.02% eye drops effectively treated Thygeson superficial punctate keratitis in patients unresponsive to steroids. This treatment rapidly improved symptoms and resolved lesions, offering a safe, steroid-sparing alternative.
Area of Science:
- Ophthalmology
- Immunology
Background:
- Thygeson superficial punctate keratitis (TSPK) is an inflammatory eye condition.
- Conventional treatments like topical steroids and lubricants are not always effective.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess the efficacy and safety of topical tacrolimus 0.02% eye drops for TSPK.
- To evaluate tacrolimus as a steroid-sparing option.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective study of 10 TSPK patients, 7 previously unresponsive to steroids/lubricants.
- Treatment involved topical tacrolimus 0.02% solution twice daily.
- Outcomes measured included symptom improvement (tearing, photophobia) and lesion reduction.
Main Results:
- All 10 patients showed subjective improvement in tearing and photophobia.
- Complete resolution of superficial punctate keratitis lesions was observed in all patients.
- Response to tacrolimus treatment occurred within 72 hours and was well-tolerated.
Conclusions:
- Topical tacrolimus 0.02% is a safe and effective treatment for TSPK, especially in steroid-refractory cases.
- Tacrolimus helps reduce ocular surface inflammation and serves as a valuable steroid-sparing agent.
- Early response and good tolerability suggest tacrolimus as a viable therapeutic option for TSPK.
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