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Changes in corneal autofluorescence and corneal epithelial barrier function with aging
1Department of Ophthalmology, National Taiwan University Hospital, Taipei, Republic of China.
Cornea
|November 1, 1993
Summary
Corneal epithelial permeability increases with age, as shown by higher fluorescein levels in older individuals. This age-related change suggests a potential decline in corneal barrier function and increased vulnerability.
Area of Science:
- Ophthalmology
- Corneal Physiology
- Aging Research
Background:
- Corneal epithelial permeability is crucial for maintaining ocular health.
- Autofluorescence of the cornea (AFC) and lens (AFL) are measurable parameters.
- Aging can affect ocular tissues and their functions.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the relationship between corneal epithelial permeability and aging.
- To assess correlations between corneal and lens autofluorescence and age.
- To determine if aging impacts the cornea's barrier function.
Main Methods:
- Fluorophotometry was used to measure corneal autofluorescence (AFC) and lens autofluorescence (AFL).
- Sodium fluorescein was applied to assess corneal epithelial permeability, with fluorescence measured at 45 minutes (F45).
- Studies were conducted on 90 eyes from 51 normal subjects.
Main Results:
- A positive correlation was found between patient age and both AFC (r=0.78) and AFL (r=0.74).
- Corneal fluorescence (F45) increased exponentially with age (r=0.67).
- Strong correlation between AFC and AFL (r=0.79) suggests parallel aging in cornea and lens.
Conclusions:
- Corneal epithelial permeability significantly increases with advancing age.
- Age-related changes in the cornea and lens show corresponding aging patterns.
- Increased permeability may indicate a subclinical breakdown of corneal barrier function, increasing vulnerability.