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Three-dimensional scanning electron microscopic study of keratoconus corneas
S Sawaguchi1, T Fukuchi, H Abe
1Department of Ophthalmology, Niigata University School of Medicine, Japan.
Archives of Ophthalmology (Chicago, Ill. : 1960)
|January 28, 1998
Summary
Keratoconus corneas show distinct Bowman layer defects, including ruptures and scarring, unlike normal or other diseased corneas. This fragmentation may indicate an early stage of keratoconus development.
Area of Science:
- Ophthalmology
- Corneal Science
- Biomaterials
Background:
- The Bowman layer is the anterior-most layer of the cornea.
- Its structural integrity is crucial for maintaining corneal shape.
- Alterations in the Bowman layer are implicated in various corneal pathologies.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the three-dimensional collagen fibril organization within the Bowman layer of keratoconus corneas.
- To identify specific structural changes associated with keratoconus in this corneal layer.
Main Methods:
- Utilized a cell maceration technique combined with scanning electron microscopy.
- Examined Bowman layer collagen networks in keratoconus, other diseased, and normal human corneas.
Main Results:
- Normal corneas exhibited a smooth Bowman layer surface with regularly arranged collagen fibrils.
- Keratoconus corneas displayed sharply edged defects and fragmentation of the Bowman layer.
- Lattice-like configurations and collagenous scar tissue were observed in all keratoconus samples, but not in other diseased corneas.
Conclusions:
- Scanning electron microscopy revealed unique alterations in the Bowman layer characteristic of keratoconus.
- Bowman layer fragmentation is a potential early indicator of keratoconus progression.