Corneal Burn Research Articles

Salubrinal Ameliorates Inflammation and Neovascularization via the Caspase 3/Enos Signaling in an Alkaline-Induced Rat Corneal Neovascularization Model.

Background and Objectives: Ocular alkaline burn is a clinical emergency that can cause permanent vision loss due to limbal stem cell deficiency and corneal neovascularization (CNV). Although the basic pathogenetic mechanisms are considered to be acute oxidative stress and corneal neovascularization triggered by inflammation, the underlying intracellular mechanisms have not been clearly elucidated. The aim of this study was to investigate the role of endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress on inflammation and neovascularization, and the effect of the ER stress inhibitor salubrinal (SLB), as a novel treatment in a corneal alkaline burn model in rats. Methods: Chemical burns were created by cautery for 4 s using a rod coated with 75% silver nitrate and 25% potassium nitrate in the corneal center for the corneal neovascularization (CNV) model. Twenty-eight Wistar albino rats were divided into four groups: SHAM, CNV, CNV + SLB, and CNV + bevacizumab (BVC). After the CNV model was applied to the right eye, a single subconjunctival dose (0.05 mL) of 1 mg/kg salubrinal was injected into both eyes in the CNV + SLB group. A total of 1.25 mg/mL of subconjunctival BVC was administered to the CNV + BVC group. Fourteen days after experimental modeling and drug administration, half of the globes were placed in liquid nitrogen and stored at -20 °C until biochemical analysis. The remaining tissues were collected and fixed in 10% buffered formalin for histopathological and immunohistochemical analysis. Three qualitative agents from three different pathways were chosen: TNFR for inflammation, endothelial nitric oxide synthase (e-NOS) for vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF)-mediated vascular permeability, and caspase-3 for cellular apoptosis. Results: Significantly lower caspase-3 and eNOS levels were detected in the CNV + SLB and CNV + BVC groups than in the CNV group. Additionally, histopathological evaluation revealed a significant decrease in neovascularization, inflammatory cell infiltration, and fibroblast activity in the CNV + SLB and CNV + BVC groups. The endoplasmic reticulum stress inhibitor, salubrinal, administered to the treatment group, attenuated apoptosis (caspase-3) and inflammation (e-NOS). In the control group (left eyes of the SLB group), salubrinal did not have a toxic effect on the healthy corneas. Conclusion: The ER stress pathway plays an important role in angiogenesis after alkaline corneal burns, and treatment with SLB modulates this pathway, reducing caspase-3 and eNOS levels. Further studies are needed to understand the molecular mechanisms altered by SLB-mediated therapy. The fact that more than one mechanism plays a role in the pathogenesis of CNV may require the use of more than one molecule in treatment. SLB has the potential to affect multiple steps in CNV pathogenesis, both in terms of reducing ER stress and regulating cellular homeostasis by inhibiting the core event of integrated stress response (ISR). Therefore, it can be used as a new treatment option and as a strengthening agent for existing treatments. Although blockade of intracellular organelle stress pathways has shown promising results in experimental studies, more in-depth research is needed before it can be used in routine practice. To the best of our knowledge, this study is the first to report the role of ER stress in corneal injury.

Plasma fibrin membranes loaded with bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells and corneal epithelial cells promote corneal injury healing via attenuating inflammation and fibrosis after corneal burns.

The shortage of corneal donors has prompted the development of tissue-engineered corneal grafts as an alternative solution. Currently, amniotic membranes with good biocompatibility are widely used as scaffolds for loading stem cells in the treatment of corneal injury. However, this approach has its limitations. In this study, BMSCs were induced to differentiate into corneal epithelial cells via direct contact co-culture, and platelet-poor plasma was used to prepare fibrin gels, which were compressed to remove excess liquid and then lyophilized to obtain plasma fibrin membranes (PFMs). A tissue-engineered corneal implant with PFMs as a scaffold loaded with BMSCs and corneal epithelial cells was designed and obtained. Scanning electron microscopy showed that PFMs have a uniformly distributed microporous surface that facilitates cell attachment and nutrient transport. The rheological results showed that the freeze-dried and rehydrated PFMs were more rigid than fresh membranes, which makes it easier to use them for transplantation after cell loading. The experimental results of a rat alkali burn cornea injury model showed that PFMs effectively reduced the inflammatory reaction, inhibited fibrosis, and accelerated the healing of corneal wounds. It was also found that some of the BMSCs were successfully implanted into the corneal injury site in rats and differentiated into corneal epithelial cells. These results demonstrate the potential of tissue-engineered corneal implants using BMSCs and corneal epithelial cells and PFMs as scaffolds as a new treatment option for corneal injury.

Effects of ozone therapy on acidic corneal burns in rats.

In the present study the effect of ozone therapy on hydrofluoric acid (HFA) related eye burn was investigated in rats. A Total 20 healthy male Wistar albino rats (weighing 250 - 300 g with the age of 16 weeks) were used. They were divided into groups (experimental and control groups) of 10 rats being housed individually and fed ad libitum. The HFA (2.00%) burn was created in all animals. The ozonized (20.00 µg O3 mL-1) bi-distilled water was applied as a drop (10.00 µL each drop) every 8 hr for 7 days in the experimental group. At the same time, 0.90% NaCl was applied as drop (10.00 µL each drop) every 8 hr for 7 days in the control group. In the experimental group, intensive inflammation, angiogenesis, epithelial damage and stromal edema were detected in one animal. Epithelial vascularization and stromal edema were seen in four animals. In control group, only two animals' corneal structures were normal. Inflammation, angiogenesis, epithelial damage, fibrosis, epithelial vascularization and stromal edema were detected in the rest. As a result of this study, it was observed that local usage of ozone therapy had a positive effect on the healing of corneal burns caused by HFA. It was concluded that more ozone-related studies should be done to enlighten the subject.

Nerves, vessels and inflammation at the ocular surface

AbstractCorneal nerves are essential in the maintenance of ocular surface homeostasis. The role of peripheral nerves in promoting the onset of corneal inflammation, instead, is only recently starting to emerge. The extremely dense sensory innervation, and complete absence of vessels, in the normal cornea, makes it an ideal target of neuroinflammation.Previous work from us demonstrated that acute nerve disruption is followed by corneal neovascularization and inflammation. We hypothesized that neuropeptide Substance P is a key modulator of corneal neuroinflammation. Indeed, our data show that neuropeptide Substance P is a key promoter of inflammation and neovascularization in pre‐clinical models of corneal burns, neovascularization, stem cell deficiency and ocular graft versus host disease. Further, we demonstrate that this effect is mediated by the Neurokinin 1 receptor, which is the principal receptor for Substance P. Moreover, we show that highly prevalent human corneal diseases/trauma are associated with increased Substance P expression in the tear fluid. This has significant clinical implication because medications are available to selectively block Neurokinin 1 receptor. Indeed, topical application of Neurokinin 1 receptor antagonists inhibits leukocyte infiltration, and ameliorate multiple clinical signs of inflammation in animal models of ocular surface inflammation.These data have allowed us to initiate a clinical trial for compassionate use of neurokinin 1 receptor antagonists for the treatment of recalcitrant ocular surface inflammation.

Ocular-periocular burns in a tertiary hospital: Epidemiologic characteristics

Ocular burns are ophthalmic emergencies that can cause devastating injuries. This study aimed to analyze the epidemiology, complications, and management of ocular-periocular burns. A total of 193 patients with ocular-periocular burns were admitted to our tertiary hospital from January 2018 to December 2020. The demographic characteristics of the patients, injury variables, complications, and treatments were evaluated. There were 142 male (73.6%) and 51 female (26.4%) patients with a mean age of 32.53±17.75 years. The average total body surface area was 12% (range, 1-80%). Injuries were most common at work (52.3%) and home (36.3%). Thermal burns were the most common injuries (74.6%), followed by chemical (14.5%) and electrical burns (10.9%). Alkaline agents (75.0%), mainly sodium hydroxide and lime, were common in chemical burns. Superficial lid burns were significantly higher in the thermal group (p<0.001), and grade III-IV corneal burns were significantly higher in the chemical group (p<0.001). Various complications were developed in 50 (13%) eyes. Medical treatment only was performed in 318 (82.4%) eyes, and additional surgical treatment was performed in 64 (17.6%) eyes; however, 54 (14.0%) underwent more than one surgery. The most common complications were corneal scars (7.3%), limbal deficiency (4.1%), and ectropion (3.9%). The most frequent procedures performed were amniotic membrane transplantation (AMT) (11.9%) and tarsorrhaphy (6.7%). Chemical burns, limbal and conjunctival ischemia, and full-thickness eyelid defects had a poor prognosis. The degree of limbal deficiency and ınjury of intraocular structures were found to have a great influence on the outcome of their visual acuity.

Transplantation of autologous cultivated oral mucosal epithelial sheets for limbal stem cell deficiency at Siriraj Hospital: a case series

BackgroundThe loss of limbal stem cells owing to either corneal burn or inflammation leads to the repopulation of opaque skin over the raw surface of the cornea. It has been proposed that reconstitution of oral mucosal stem cells over this raw surface will mimic the limbal stem cells and restore vision. The efficacy and safety of applying a sheet of cultivated oral mucosal cells as an autologous graft for corneal replacement were evaluated.Case presentationThe study was conducted during 2014–2015 and involved a total of six patients, of whom three had suffered a chemical burn and three had Stevens-Johnson Syndrome (SJS). Oral mucosal tissue was dissected from each patient, seeded onto irradiated J2 fibroblast feeder cells for 14 days, and analyzed for quality and safety 1 day before being transplanted onto the cornea of the affected eyes. After transplantation, topical antibiotic and anti-inflammatory eye drops were instilled four times daily, and the patients wore contact lenses. Subjects were clinically followed for visual acuities and adverse effects at 2, 4, and 6 weeks, 3 and 6 months, and 1 year post-transplantation. Data were presented descriptively. Visual acuities in patients improved at 2 weeks post-surgery. However, two patients with SJS had corneal ulcer at 2 weeks postoperatively. At the 1-year postoperative examination, the eyes of two patients were in good condition with decreased vascularization and epithelial defect.ConclusionsCultivated oral mucosal epithelial sheet transplantation in limbal stem cell deficiency had a favorable efficacy. In this study, patients with chemical burn had more clinical benefit than those with SJS.Trial registration ClinicalTrials.gov: NCT02415218. Registered retrospectively 4 Apr 2015 (https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT02415218).

Monolateral Epithelial Hyperplasia Caused by Boiling Oil Misdiagnosed as Unilateral Keratoconus

PURPOSE: To describe a case of monolateral decreased visual acuity due to corneal epithelial hyperplasia that occurred after a thermal burn. A surgical approach can restore visual acuity and the corneal surface regularity. METHODS: The patient was concerned about a decrease in visual acuity. The slit-lamp examination and general medical history were not significant. The diagnosis was achieved by performing an anterior segment tomography, which showed an increased epithelial thickness with a reduced stromal thickness. No pathological anterior or posterior elevation areas were detected. Corneal biomechanics evaluation confirmed the absence of keratoconus. After further interrogation, the patient recalled she had a domestic mild thermal burn with boiling oil. RESULTS: The patient underwent a corneal epithelial debridement and achieved an uncorrected distance visual acuity of 20/20. CONCLUSIONS: The authors highlight the importance of performing anterior segment tomography and of studying the epithelial thickness after corneal burns, even in clear corneas. [ Journal of Refractive Surgery Case Reports. 2022;2(3):e55–e59.]

Ocular chemical burns following accidental instillation of tinea pedis treatment solution: A report of two cases

Many commonly used household chemicals and medical eye drops look alike, resulting in a worldwide increase in incidences of accidents caused by confusion between similar-looking agents. In this case report, we present two patients who visited the emergency department following inadvertent instillation of tinea pedis treatment solution instead of eye drops. Both patients developed corneal chemical burns following the accidental application. Notably, the visual acuity and symptoms eventually recovered for both patients after hospitalization. However, complete recovery occurred only after several weeks. Both patients were relatively old and had been prescribed eye drops after previous ophthalmic surgery. Since the eye is a sensory organ that receives visual information, ocular injuries significantly affect the quality of life and social functioning of the patient. Incidences of accidental misidentification of eye drops are steadily increasing in South Korea; unfortunately, regulatory policies are unavailable to avoid such hazards. Therefore, physicians should be mindful of the potential risks associated with misidentification of everyday household products and must spend time educating patients when prescribing eye drops. Policy regulations are warranted for products with containers that resemble eye drop bottles. Such items need to be clearly labeled with additional warnings to prevent misidentification and accidental ocular instillation.

Предварительное клиническое исследование нового метода лечения ожоговых дефектов роговицы

Purpose. Of the work is to compare the effectiveness of treatment of burn ulcers with canned amnion and amnion saturated with lysate of autologous platelet-rich plasma (PRP). Material and methods. To compare the effectiveness of treatment of canned amnion and lysate-soaked PRP, 10 patients with ulcers with an area of more than ½ of the cornea after fresh burns of 2–3 degrees aged from 26 to 53 were observed, divided into 2 equal groups. In the comparison group, the treatment of ulcers was carried out against the background of conservative treatment by covering the cornea with an amniotic membrane for 7 days, after which the amnion was removed and the condition of the cornea was monitored. If necessary, the procedure was repeated. In the experimental group, an amniotic membrane saturated with lysate of autologous PRP was used. The assessment of the condition of the cornea was carried out using clinical and instrumental studies, including visometry, biomicroscopy with fluorescein staining, photoregistration and OCT on the Heidelberg Engineering “OCT Spectralis” apparatus. Results. In patients of the experimental group, transplantation of an amniotic membrane impregnated with PRP lysate, in comparison with conventional amnion, led to epithelization of ulcers faster by an average of 7 days, the cornea remained more transparent, and visual acuity was higher by 0,17. Conclusions. The use of an amniotic membrane saturated with PRP lysate may be a promising method of treating corneal burn ulcers. Keywords: amnion; platelet-rich plasma; platelet lysate; corneal ulcers; corneal burns.

Частота и исходы ожоговой травмы органа зрения

Purpose. Study of the structure, functional outcomes of burn injuries of the organ of vision in patients receiving inpatient treatment in an ophthalmological clinic. Material and methods. A continuous sample of patients with burns of the eyes and its appendages hospitalized in the ophthalmological department for 2017 and 2019. Results. 42 patients were hospitalized in the ophthalmology department, including 12 children under 18 years of age. The largest proportion was the age group from 30 to 50 years (51 %). Men predominated – 30 people (72 %). Thermal burns were in 5 patients (12 %). 37 patients (88 %) had chemical burns. All patients had corneal burns, in particular I degree in 19 people, II degree in 16 people, III degree in 7 people. The burn of the conjunctiva of the eyeball and the conjunctiva of the eyelids was noted in all eyes. Treatment of severe burns was carried out in accordance with the stages of burn injury. Conclusion. During the study period, there were 42 cases of eye burn injuries among residents of Khabarovsk and the Khabarovsk Territory, of which 12 were children under 18 years of age. All of them required hospital treatment. Keywords: thermal, chemical burns of the eye, severity of burn injury to the eyes.

Phacoemulsification Learning Curve : Our Experience

Background : To asses resident”s performance of phacoemulsification surgery and determine which steps of the procedure are most difficult to learn and to measure rate of intraoperative complications.&#x0D; Materials and methods : A prospective study was carried out at Bangladesh Eye Hospital between January 2016 to December 2017. The total 50 (Fifty) eyes of fifty patients diagnosed cataract patient were selected randomly.&#x0D; Results : Corrected visual outcome after 3 weeks of operation were 6/6 in 18 patients (36%) 6/9 in 17 pts (34%) 6/12 in 7 pts (14%) 6/18 in 4 pts (8%) 6/24 in 3 (6%) and 6/36 in one pt (2%). Overall intraoperative complications occurred in 14 cases (28%) including with cases experiencing more than one complication. There is corneal wound burn 2 cases (4%) Iris catch by phaco probe 3 cases (6%) Anterior capsular edges tear 3 cases (6%) Posterior capsular rupture 4 cases (8%) with vitrous loss 2 cases (4%) retained lens fragments 2 cases (4%). Post operative complications include wound gap, shallow anterior chamber, corneal stromal oedema and bullous keratopathy.&#x0D; Conclusion : The study indicates that a trainee can be taught phacoemulsification with acceptable complication rates and visual results. The results compare favourably with reports of senior surgeons converting to phacoemulsification, trainee surgeons learning extracapsular surgery, and recently reported phacoemulsification series.&#x0D; IAHS Medical Journal Vol 4(2), June 2021; 43-46

Melatonin exerts anti-angiogenic and anti-inflammatory effects in alkali-burned corneas.

BackgroundCorneal neovascularization (CNV) caused by alkali burn injury is tightly associated with an inflammatory reaction and can lead to vision loss. Melatonin is involved in anti-inflammation and anti-angiogenesis, but its role in CNV has not yet been investigated.MethodsWe induced CNV using sodium hydroxide (NaOH) and compared the reactions of vehicle control and melatonin-treated male C57BL/6 mice at 7 and 14 days following the corneal burn. The infiltration of inflammatory cells and the expression of proangiogenic factors, chemokines, and inflammation-related molecules were quantified via immunohistochemical (IHC) analysis and quantitative real-time reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR), respectively. Murine peritoneal macrophages were used in vitro to further verify the effect of melatonin in inflammatory CNV.ResultsCompared with the vehicle control mice, the melatonin-treated mice showed significant inhibition of angiogenesis and reduction of corneal epithelial defects in alkali-burned corneas. Concomitantly, the infiltration of inflammatory cells and F4/80+ cells were dramatically reduced after melatonin treatment. The messenger RNA (mRNA) expression of proangiogenic factors [vascular endothelial growth factors (VEGF) and matrix metalloproteinase-9 (MMP-9)], monocyte chemotactic protein-1 (MCP-1), nucleotide-binding oligomerization domain-like receptor family pyrin domain-containing 3 (NLRP3), and pro-inflammatory cytokines [tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α) and interleukin-1β (IL-1β) and IL-6] were down-regulated in the melatonin-treated mice. Moreover, melatonin inhibited the expression of these factors in murine peritoneal macrophages.ConclusionsMelatonin inhibits the neovascular and inflammatory responses in corneal alkali burn injury, suggesting that it may be a potential therapy for CNV.

Hyaluronic acid hydrogels crosslinked via blue light-induced thiol-ene reaction for the treatment of rat corneal alkali burn.

To assess corneal inflammation from alkali chemical burns, we examined the therapeutic effects of in situ-forming hyaluronic acid (HA) hydrogels crosslinked via blue light-induced thiol-ene reaction on a rat corneal alkali burn model. Animals were divided into three groups (n = 7 rats per group): untreated, treated with 0.1% HA eye drops, and treated with crosslinked HA hydrogels. Crosslinking of HA hydrogel followed by the administration of HA eye drops and crosslinked HA hydrogels were carried out once a day from days 0–4. Corneal re-epithelialization, opacity, neovascularization, thickness, and histology were evaluated to compare the therapeutic effects of the three groups. Further investigation was conducted on the transparency of HA hydrogels to acquire the practical capabilities of hydrogel as a reservoir for drug delivery. Compared to untreated animals, animals treated with crosslinked HA hydrogels exhibited greater corneal re-epithelialization on days 1, 2, 4, and 7 post-injury (p = 0.004, p = 0.007, p = 0.008, and p = 0.034, respectively) and the least corneal neovascularization (p = 0.008). Histological analysis revealed lower infiltration of stromal inflammatory cells and compact collagen structure in crosslinked HA hydrogel-treated animals than in untreated animals. These findings corresponded with immunohistochemical analyses indicating that the expression of inflammatory markers such as α-SMA, MMP9, and IL1-β was lower in animals treated with crosslinked HA hydrogels than untreated animals and animals treated only with 0.1% HA eye drops. With beneficial pharmacological effects such as re-epithelization and anti-inflammation, in situ-forming hyaluronic acid (HA) hydrogels may be a promising approach to effective drug delivery in cases of corneal burn injuries.

Study of power use and complication frequency of Nd:YAG laser iridotomy in the management of primary angle closure glaucoma

Background: The aim of the study was to assess the power use and efficacy of Nd:YAG laser iridotomy in the management of primary angle closure (PAC). Material and methods: A prospective cross-sectional analysis was done in 146 eyes of 81 cases who underwent neodymium: yttrium-aluminum-garnet laser iridotomy. There were 42 patients with chronic primary angle closure glaucoma (PACG), 46 with acute and subacute PAC, and 11 with PACS (suspects). After initial intraocular pressure (IOP) controlling, all patients were treated with Nd:YAG laser iridotomy. Before and after the laser therapy, IOP, laser parameters, mean power use, and complications, if any, were noted. Results: The average total power used was 78.56 ± 8.1 mJ per eye. The anatomy of angle structures improved by one or two of Shaffer’s grades. Controlled IOP was noted in 71% (17) of patients with PACG (chronic) and 93% (43) of patients with PAC (acute and subacute). The average total power used was 78.568.1 mJ per eye. Junior residents used more power than senior residents (88.5 62.5 mJ vs. 63.55 ± 5.8 mJ, p = 0.011). Complications included elevated IOP in 38.27% (31/81), aqueous flare/debris in 34.56% (24/81), iris bleeding in 18.51% (15/81), corneal burns in 4.93% (4/81), and lens damage in 3.71% (3/81). Laser peripheral iridotomy (LPI) was repeated in 48.14% of cases (39/81), with junior residents having a higher rate of repeat LPI than senior residents (p = 0.02). Complication rates differed between residents who performed the procedure (p = 0.16). In PACS subjects, 63.6% had a history of repeated LPI, followed by 58.33% in PACG and 39.1% in PAC cases. At follow-up, 3% of PAC eyes had glaucomatous optic neuropathy. Conclusion: Laser iridotomy in managing early PACG reduces IOP and improves patient acuity. Nd:YAG laser iridotomy is effective in widening the drainage angle and lowering elevated IOP in patients with PAC.

Topical Pirfenidone-Loaded Liposomes Ophthalmic Formulation Reduces Haze Development after Corneal Alkali Burn in Mice.

Corneal chemical burns (CCBs) frequently result in corneal fibrosis or haze, an opacity of the cornea that obstructs vision and induces corneal blindness. Diverse strategies have been employed to prevent or reduce CCB-related corneal haze. In this study, we evaluated the physicochemical characteristics and biologic effects of a topical pirfenidone (PFD)-loaded liposomal formulation (PL) on a corneal alkali burn mice model. We found that PL was appropriate for ocular application due to its physiologic tear pH, osmolarity and viscosity suitable for topical ophthalmic use. Regarding its therapeutic activity, PL-treated mice had significantly reduced haze size and density, corneal edema, corneal thickness, and corneal inflammatory infiltration, in contrast to PFD in aqueous solution (p < 0.01). Importantly, the antifibrotic activity of PL (reduction of corneal haze) was associated with modulation of transforming growth factor (TGF)-β and Interleukin (IL)-1β genes. PL suppressed TGF-β expression and restored normal IL-1β expression in corneal tissue more efficiently in contrast to PFD in aqueous solution. In conclusion, PFD showed essential anti-inflammatory and anti-fibrotic effects in the treatment of alkali burns. Noteworthy, a new formulation of PFD-loaded liposomes remarkably improved these effects, standing out as a promising treatment for corneal haze.

Ожоги глаз литий-ионным аккумулятором

A clinical case of a child with a thermochemical burn of the cornea and conjunctiva, which occurred when particles of a lithium-ion battery got into the eyes, is presented. In the described case, a favorable outcome was observed due to the early provision of first and emergency medical care, as well as the high regenerative ability of the child’s cornea. Key words: thermochemical eye burn, lithium-ion battery, corneal burn, corneal erosion.

Corneal topographic changes after sequential suture removal in a corneal wound burn after phacoemulsification

This case describes the timing of suture removal and stabilization of refraction in a case of corneal wound burn associated with phacoemulsification. A 70-year-old woman presented with diminution of visio in both eyes for 1 year. O/E lens opacification classification system grade NC4C3P2 cataract was present in both eyes with normal fundus. Primary diagnosis was cataract in both eyes. The left eye was planned for microincision cataract surgery by a trainee under local anesthesia. Corneal wound burn and iris chaffing were noted at the end of surgery, and 3 sutures were placed at the main port. At 15 days and 1 month postoperatively, the uncorrected distance visual acuity (UDVA) was 20/80 with high regular astigmatism showing over cylinder on autorefractometer. Sequential suture removal was done 1 month postoperatively with an interval of 15 minutes between each suture and corneal topography performed after each suture removal. Topography exhibited reduction in astigmatism from 10.6 to 1.2 diopters after suture removal. The UDVA and corrected distance visual acuity after 1-hour postsuture removal was 20/32 and 20/20, respectively, with a refraction of −0.50 diopter sphere/−0.50 diopter cylinder @ 95 degrees, which was stable even at 1-month and 6-month follow-up. We conclude that suture removal can be planned as early as 4 weeks with refraction and keratometric readings being stable even after 6 months.

Lesson to be learned

Pediatric ocular chemical injuries constitute a true ocular emergency and require urgent evaluation and treatment. We report a case of ocular chemical burn in an 11-month-old infant following contamination of ophthalmic eye drop vial with trichloroacetic acid. The child developed superficial corneal burn which was managed successfully with a favorable outcome.

New Drugs for Ophthalmology Based on 6-methyl-3-(thietan-3-yl)uracil (Experimental Research)

Purpose: develop of new drugs for ophthalmology based on 6-methyl-3-(thietan-3-yl)uracil and methyluracil.Materials and methods. An experimental study was carried out on 10 rabbits with a body weight of 3.5–4.0 kg of chinchilla breed. A thermal burn of the cornea in the eyes of 6 rabbits and a chemical burn of the cornea in the eyes of 4 rabbits were modeled. Therapy with the use of drugs was carried out: ophthalmic ointment — in thermal burns, ophthalmic medicinal films based on 6-methyl-3-(thietan-3-yl)uracil and methyluracil in chemical burns.Results. The use of ophthalmic ointment based on 6-methyl-3-(thietan-3-yl)uracil for thermal burns led to a decrease in conjunctival hyperemia and resorption of corneal edema by 4–5 days. On the 14th day of therapy, the microscopic picture of the rabbits cornea had the usual normal structure. The use of 6-methyl-3-(thietan-3-yl)uracil and methyluracil based ophthalmic drug films yielded the following results: centripetal epithelialization of corneal erosion was observed, epithelial regeneration was higher with the use of methyluracil eye drug films and total epithelization was achieved on the 7th day of observation than when using eye drug films based on 6-methyl-3-(thietan-3-yl)uracil, where total epithelization occurred on the 14th day. Complete restoration of the surface epithelial layer of the cornea in both groups was observed on the 21st day.Conclusions. The use of new drugs based on 6-methyl-3-(thietan-3-yl)uracil and methyluracil in various types of corneal burns showed good tolerance in the eyes of experimental animals, shortened the treatment time, and achieved high wound healing efficacy.

Contact corneal thermal burn from domestic electric clothes iron in a female teenager: A case report

Corneal thermal burn from domestic electric clothes pressing iron is a very rare occurrence among teenagers in Nigeria. We report the case of thermal burn to the ocular surface of a 16-year-old female, at home, from the sole plate of an electric clothes pressing iron. She presented with superficial eyelids and corneal burns (Roper-Hall Classification Grade II; Dua Classification Grade II). The patient was successfully managed with topical cyclopentolate 2%, topical moxifloxacin 0.5%, and tetracycline ointment. Well-documented causative agents of domestic eye injuries in the young in Nigeria are usually flying missiles. Thermal ocular injuries are quite uncommon, and when they occur, are likely due to steam burns. This report highlights the electric clothes pressing iron as a domestic hazard that caregivers must be mindful of.