Choroidal blood flow regulation during a latanoprost‐induced decrease in intraocular pressure

Abstract

Abstract Purpose Blood flow regulation in the human choroid appears to be complex. We have recently shown that choroidal blood flow is better regulated during exercise‐induced changes in choroidal blood flow than during a suction‐cup‐induced increase in intraocular pressure (IOP). In the present study we hypothesized that choroidal blood flow regulation may be altered during a latanoprost‐induced decrease in IOP. Methods In this prospective, balanced, placebo‐controlled parallel group study, 18 healthy male volunteers were included. Choroidal blood flow regulation was assessed using laser Doppler flowmetry during an artificial increase in intraocular pressure using a suction cup and during a 6 minutes squatting period. Results were compared before drug administration and after 14 days of topical instillation of either latanoprost or placebo. Results Neither systemic blood pressure nor choroidal blood flow at baseline was altered by latanoprost. As expected, latanoprost did, however, reduce IOP. The regulation of choroidal blood flow was altered by latanoprost with a wider range of regulation compared to placebo treatment (p < 0.05). Conclusion The present data indicate that administration of latanoprost improves choroidal blood flow regulation. Since latanoprost did not alter baseline choroidal blood flow this effect may be related to the reduction in IOP.