Corneal collagen cross-linking. A review of its clinical applications.
ARCHIVOS DE LA SOCIEDAD ESPANOLA DE OFTALMOLOGIA 2017;
92:166-174. [PMID:
27914659 DOI:
10.1016/j.oftal.2016.10.004]
[Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/02/2016] [Revised: 10/13/2016] [Accepted: 10/14/2016] [Indexed: 06/06/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE
To perform a literature review of the current clinical applications of corneal collagen cross-linking.
METHODS
An exhaustive literature search was made, including the main biomedical databases, and encompassing all years since the introduction of cross-linking in ophthalmology practice.
RESULTS
Corneal collagen cross-linking using UVA irradiation and riboflavin is a surgical technique that is currently being optimised, and is supported by a good amount of pre-clinical and clinical studies. These papers found show the beneficial effect of the surgery on preventing the progression of corneal ectasia, especially keratoconus, but also on pellucid marginal degeneration and keratectasia after refractive surgery. The effect of cross-linking on avoiding the occurrence of iatrogenic keratectasia when combined with a photo-ablative procedure is less clear to date. Additionally, it appears that cross-linking may have a considerable beneficial effect on controlling corneal infection caused by fungi, bacteria and amoebae. However, its effect on viral keratitis can be detrimental. The benefit on bullous keratopathy seems to be rather transient.
CONCLUSIONS
Corneal collagen cross-linking may be used with relative safety and efficacy in patients with progressive keratoconus. Its use could also be considered in patients with other corneal ectasias or with corneal infections of non-viral origin. Currently, there is still a need for more studies as regards its effect on preventing iatrogenic keratectasia.
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