Effect of topical trifluridine on Thygeson's superficial punctate keratitis

Six eyes of four patients with Thygeson's superficial punctate keratitis were treated with trifluridine 1% drops. Five of the six treated eyes responded favorably to topical trifluridine therapy. Symptoms and later the signs of the disease disappeared, but more slowly than observed following topical corticosteroid therapy. One patient with an 11-year history of topical corticosteroid dependence for clearing of lesions was treated successfully with trifluridine, and his eyes have remained clear for over one year without therapy. Mild irritation and transient limbal follicle formation were the only recognized side effects. Trifluridine is thus an effective and safe alternative to corticosteroids in the treatment of this condition and may offer a means of treating the steroid-dependent patient.