Corneal injuries can occur secondary to traumatic, chemical, inflammatory, metabolic, autoimmune, and iatrogenic causes. Ocular infection may frequently occur concurrent to corneal injury; however, antimicrobial agents are excluded from this present review. While practitioners may primarily rely on clinical examination techniques to assess these injuries, several pharmacological agents, such as fluorescein, lissamine green, and rose bengal, can be used to formulate a diagnosis and develop effective treatment strategies. Practitioners may choose from several analgesic medications to help with patient comfort without risking further injury or delaying ocular healing. Atropine, cyclopentolate, scopolamine, and homatropine are among the most frequently used medications for this purpose. Additional topical analgesic agents may be used judiciously to augment patient comfort to facilitate diagnosis. Steroidal anti-inflammatory agents are frequently used as part of the therapeutic regimen. A variety of commonly used agents, including prednisolone acetate, loteprednol, difluprednate, dexamethasone, fluorometholone, and methylprednisolone are discussed. While these medications are effective for controlling ocular inflammation, side effects, such as elevated intraocular pressure and cataract formation, must be monitored by clinicians. Non-steroidal medications, such as ketorolac, bromfenac, nepafenac, and diclofenac, are additionally used for their efficacy in controlling ocular inflammation without incurring side effects seen with steroids. However, these agents have their own respective side effects, warranting close monitoring by clinicians. Additionally, ophthalmologists routinely employ several agents in an off-label manner for supplementary control of inflammation and treatment of corneal injuries. Patients with corneal injuries not infrequently have significant ocular surface disease, either as a concurrent pathology or as an exacerbation of previously existing disease. Several agents used in the management of ocular surface disease have also been found to be useful as part of the therapeutic armamentarium for treatment of corneal injuries. For example, several antibiotics, such as doxycycline and macrolides, have been used for their anti-inflammatory effects on specific cytokines that are upregulated during acute injuries. There has been a recent wave of interest in amniotic membrane therapies (AMTs), including topical, cryopreserved and dehydrated variants. AMT is particularly effective in ocular injuries with violation of corneal surface integrity due to its ability to promote re-epithelialization of the corneal epithelium. Blood-based therapies, including autologous serum tears, plasma-enriched growth factor eyedrops and autologous blood drops, have additionally been explored in small case series for effectiveness in challenging and recalcitrant cases. Protection of the ocular surface is also a vital component in the treatment of corneal injuries. Temporary protective methods, such as bandage contact lenses and mechanical closure of the eyelids (tarsorrhaphy) can be particularly helpful in selective cases. Glue therapies, including biologic and non-biologic variants, can also be used in cases of severe injury and risk of corneal perforation. Finally, there are a variety of recently introduced and in-development agents that may be used as adjuvant therapies in challenging patient populations. Neurotrophic corneal disease may occur as a result of severe or chronic injury. In such cases, recombinant human nerve growth factor (cenegermin), topical insulin, and several other novel agents may be an alternate and effective option for clinicians to consider.
Key Points
A variety of cycloplegic, anti-inflammatory agents, and off-label use oral drugs are used in the treatment of noninfectious corneal injuries.
Various mechanical barrier therapies, amniotic membrane therapies (AMTs), and blood-based therapies have gained significant attention recently for their usefulness in facilitating corneal wound healing.
A number of novel agents with good preclinical profiles remain an area of future investigation and interest as effective adjunctive and solo therapies.
Currently, there lacks a compendium-style article on current and recently developed corneal agents. This article is intended to concisely summarize each diagnostic and therapeutic agent to assist clinicians encountering this challenging patient population.
1 Introduction
Corneal wound healing involves several complex pathways that can be targeted by drugs with varying mechanisms of action. Furthermore, corneal sensitivity and pain are due to the high density of the nerve endings in the cornea [1]. Corneal injuries can affect these nerves resulting in dry eye disease due to reduced blinking, altered tear production, and impaired release of trophic factors, which are necessary to maintain the structural and functional integrity of the cornea. Agents that numb the surface of the eye are imperative to achieving a proper diagnosis in addition to providing optimal management.
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There are a variety of agents used for corneal injuries from diagnostic (analgesic and staining agents) to therapeutic medications. With regard to the latter, there are a plethora of drug classes employed by ophthalmologists to control eye pain, combat inflammation, and treat ocular surface disease. Compiling a guide of available corneal agents is challenging due to the vast number of agents, the off-label use of oral agents, and recently developed novel agents. Although lists of ocular agents have been compiled previously in textbooks and other guides, these resources usually only discuss drop therapies without mention of barrier therapies, amniotic membrane therapies (AMTs), blood-based therapies, or novel agents. This compendium-type article would be helpful for both eye-care professionals as well as other providers in treating corneal injuries. The goal of this paper is to provide readers with comprehensive but concise summaries of each agent separated by class as an effective up-to-date reference. Additionally, a brief summary of novel agents, including those currently in development, is included to provide a foundation for approaching and understanding future developments in this field.
2 Diagnostic Agents
2.1 Diagnostic Analgesic Agents
2.1.1 Proparacaine 0.5%
Proparacaine is a topical ophthalmic anesthetic (TOA) used to numb the eye before surgeries, clinical examination, and other minor ocular surface procedures (Table 1). This agent works by antagonizing the function of voltage-gated sodium channels [2]. Anesthesia of corneal epithelium typically occurs within 15 s, which improves patient comfort during examination of the damaged cornea. We recommend proparacaine eyedrops to be used exclusively for diagnostic purposes as opposed to therapeutic use in the setting of cornea injury. The use of dilute or physician-dispensed proparacaine for the treatment of corneal injury, such as corneal abrasions, is highly controversial. While some authors have advocated for limited, supervised use in specific settings, other authors have reported significant injury and infection from topical anesthetic abuse. It is our opinion that patients should not use TOAs for treatment of ocular surface pain [2‐6]. Significant corneal injury should instead be referred to an ophthalmologist with experience in medical and surgical treatment of corneal disease. Prolonged use of TOAs can lead to corneal scarring and superimposed infections such as bacterial and/or fungal keratitis [7]. Other complications with prolonged use of TOAs include corneal epithelial defects, stromal infiltrates, ring-shaped keratitis, and hypopyon, especially in patients with work-related injuries [7].
Table 1
Overview of diagnostic analgesic agents regarding purpose, onset of action, duration of action and other notes
Diagnostic agent
Purpose
Onset
Duration
Other notes
Proparacaine 0.5%
TOA
30 s
15 min
Recommend to be used exclusively for diagnostic purposes
Use of dilute or physician-dispensed proparacaine is controversial
Tetracaine 0.5%
TOA
30 s
10–20 min
Cold tetracaine causes less burning sensation
Lidocaine
TOA
30 s to 1 min
5–30 min
Available in 1–4% solution or 2% gel formulation
More useful agent when longer duration of anesthetic effect is desired
2.1.2 Tetracaine 0.5%
Tetracaine is another TOA used for diagnostic purposes similar to proparacaine. At 0.5% concentration, tetracaine hydrochloride solution is a clear and colorless solution that can be used for procedures requiring a rapid and short-acting ophthalmic anesthetic. Practitioners may choose between either proparacaine or tetracaine. Although this agent can be stored at room temperature or refrigerated, cold tetracaine causes less burning sensation upon instillation [8, 9]. As a result, it is recommended that this drug is refrigerated if used in routine practice. Some practitioners use a combination of proparacaine and tetracaine for minor in-office procedures, such as removal of corneal foreign bodies at the slit-lamp for additional anesthesia.
2.1.3 Lidocaine
Lidocaine may be given as a solution (1–4%) or gel (2%) formulation and works as a local anesthetic agent by stabilizing the neuronal membrane by inhibiting the ionic fluxes required for the initiation and conduction of impulses [10]. Anesthesia generally occurs between 20 s and 1 min with effects lasting from 5 to 30 min. When compared to tetracaine, 4% lidocaine resulted in a significantly prolonged topical anesthetic effect, making it a potentially useful agent when longer duration of anesthetic effect is desired for diagnostic or treatment purposes [11]. Some clinicians utilize lidocaine for in-office diagnostic and therapeutic procedures, such as removal of superficial conjunctival foreign body and/or intraocular injection of therapeutic agents, when stronger anesthetic effect is required.
2.2 Diagnostic Staining Agents
2.2.1 Fluorescein
This agent is used to stain the cornea to detect abrasions and other eye abnormalities (Fig. 1). In cases of traumatic injury in which there is a clinical concern for corneal perforation and/or wound leak, fluorescein strips can be used for Seidel testing to aid the practitioner in determining the presence of a compromised wound. Fluorescein is also available as a stock solution available in multiple-use bottles (Table 2). In the setting of corneal injury, we recommend the use of strips rather than solution due to advantages such as allowing for Seidel testing, convenience, and decreasing risk of bacterial contamination associated with multiple-use fluorescein bottles, notable with Pseudomonas species [12]. The strips are moistened with sterile water, saline, or a TOA, then applied to the palpebral conjunctiva. Care should be given to avoid contact with the bulbar conjunctiva or the cornea directly, unless specifically used for Seidel testing, in order to avoid additional injury. After application, shining cobalt blue light to the eye can aid the clinician in detecting corneal defects by marking denuded epithelium with a bright green hue. Fluorescein is generally considered safe. However, a case report detailed a patient developing syncope and anaphylactic shock 3 min after receiving topical fluorescein in the eye [12].
Fig. 1
Fluorescein. A 33-year-old patient suffered a bullet shot across the face. The shearing force resulted in a right eye corneal abrasion. Fluorescein staining was helpful to assess the extent of the epithelial defect. Seidel test was negative and there were no obvious signs of open globe injury. AS-OCT demonstrates areas of epithelial disruption as evidenced by loss of the hyperreflectivity (arrowheads) of the epithelium. There is associated epithelial and stromal edema, and areas of increased stromal hyperreflectivity.
Images used in figure taken from authors’ unpublished images
Table 2
Overview of diagnostic staining agents
Diagnostic agent
Purpose
Other notes
Fluorescein
Dye
Available in paper strips or solution with anesthetic ± preservatives
Recommend strips due to less risk of contamination
Various punctate staining patterns suggest different diagnoses
Non-toxic and water-soluble
Lissamine Green
Dye
Available as strips or 1% solution
Stains epithelial cells when mucin coating of cornea is disrupted
Not shown to stain healthy cells
No toxicity
Recommend in red eyes due to green contrast
More effective
Rose Bengal
Dye
Available as strips or 1% solution
Derivative of fluorescein
Stains damaged and healthy cells
May cause patient discomfort upon instillation
Toxic to corneal epithelium
×
2.2.2 Lissamine Green
This agent is a green triarylmethane dye that can also be used to stain the anterior surface of the eye (Fig. 2). This agent is available on a swab moistened with saline for application into the lower fornix. While fluorescein stains between cells to achieve clearer staining of the cornea, lissamine green stains the cells themselves resulting in a complementary effect [13]. Uniquely, lissamine green has not been shown to stain healthy cells and has no toxicity properties [14]. Furthermore, the green coloring of this agent has a greater contrast in the red eye as opposed to the pink hue of rose bengal.
Fig. 2
Lissamine green. Lissamine green can be used to assess for corneal injury, such as punctate epithelial erosions. In this patient, lissamine green highlights areas in the inferior cornea, whereas the superior cornea is relatively unaffected. This type of staining pattern is common in patients with exposure keratopathy or eyelid injuries in which the lower half of the cornea is relatively more exposed to the environment as compared to the superior cornea which is covered by the upper eyelid.
Image used in figure taken from authors’ unpublished images
×
2.2.3 Rose Bengal
Another stain in the class of organic compounds called xanthenes, rose bengal is also used in eyedrops to stain damaged corneal and conjunctival cells to identify eye damage. Although rose bengal is actually a derivative of fluorescein, this dye is not as commonly used as fluorescein or lissamine green. Rose bengal stains not only dead or damaged cells, but also stains healthy cells [15]. Research shows that tear-film components like mucins, albumin, or even artificial tears can block rose bengal from staining the ocular surface [13].
Furthermore, rose bengal has an intrinsic cellular and dose-dependent toxic effect on corneal epithelial cells that is enhanced by exposure to light, which may hinder diagnosis of a disease [14] Compared to fluorescein and lissamine green, rose bengal causes more patient discomfort due to stinging upon instillation [16].
3 Cycloplegic/Pain Control Agents
Agents in this category paralyze the iris sphincter and cause mydriasis or dilation of the pupil (Table 3). Cholinergic-blocking drugs not only induce mydriasis but also paralysis of the ciliary body (cycloplegia). This latter effect paralyzes the patient’s ability to focus or accommodate, causing near vision to be blurry until the drug’s effect wears off. Thus, while these agents are effective for ciliary pain, patients should be counseled about the short-term loss of near vision while using these medications.
Table 3
Overview of cycloplegic agents regarding the onset of action, duration of action and other notes
Cycloplegic agent
Onset
Duration
Other notes
Atropine
10–15 min, maximal effect in 30–40 minutes
3–7 days
Not recommended for children < 3 months
Homatropine
15 min, maximal effect in 30–40 min
1–2 days
Not recommended for children < 3 months
Cyclopentolate
20–30 min, maximal effect in 60 min
8 h
Not recommended for children < 3 months
Tropicamide
15–20 min
4–10 h
0.5% tropicamide with 5% epinephrine is a safe and effective agent for infant patients
Scopolamine
Rapid, maximal effect within 8 min
3–7 days
Not recommended for children < 3 months
3.1 Atropine Sulfate
This agent is formulated with either 0.5% or 1% concentration. It is one of the strongest cycloplegic drugs available and exerts significant inhibition on the muscarinic action of acetylcholine. This is a longer-acting cycloplegic and thus not the ideal agent to dilate the pupil for diagnostic purposes. However, atropine should be considered for treatment of ciliary pain associated with significant intraocular inflammation, as in addition to its analgesic effects, it helps to prevent formation of posterior synechiae between the iris and crystalline lens. Unwanted side effects may last 1–2 weeks. Recently, this medication has gained significant interest in its potential role in the treatment of myopia progression in children [17‐19].
3.2 Homatropine
Usually formulated with 5% concentration, this drug can relieve both pain and discomfort of most non-penetrating ocular injuries by relaxing the iris and ciliary body. Homatropine directly blocks muscarinic action of acetylcholine and exerts its effects for a slightly lesser duration as compared to atropine. Homatropine may be preferred to atropine due to a more rapid and shorter duration of action [20].
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3.3 Cyclopentolate
This agent is formulated with 0.5%, 1%, or 2% concentration. Cyclomydril, a combination drop of cyclopentolate 0.2% and phenylephrine 1%, is ideal in infants and young children because it produces more complete cycloplegia with a single drop. This is particularly useful in children as they have stronger accommodation capabilities compared to adult patients, thereby necessitating more adequate paralysis of the ciliary muscle. Although systemic absorption is typically minimal, there are case reports of this agent inducing paralytic ileus, bradycardia, and oxygen desaturation in premature and neonatal infants [21, 22]. In pediatric patients, neurotoxic effects may occur, causing symptoms ranging from hallucination, psychosis, seizures, to other acute CNS manifestations [23].
3.4 Tropicamide
An antimuscarinic drug producing pupil dilation and cycloplegia, tropicamide is also used to better examine the lens, vitreous, and retina. It is available in two formulations, 0.5% and 1.0%; the latter is more commonly used. Lasting around 4–10 h, this agent is typically used during dilated fundus examinations and can also be used to break synechiae or adhesions in the eye due to inflammation. In the USA, this agent is often paired with the sympathomimetic drop phenylephrine hydrochloride at 2.5% concentration. When 0.5% tropicamide is paired with 5% epinephrine eyedrops, a study found that premature infants undergoing screening for retinopathy of prematurity achieved twice the dilated pupil surface area with the combination of drugs compared to 0.5% tropicamide alone [24]. Like other agents in its class, this agent can blur vision and in rare cases cause an attack of acute angle-closure glaucoma so angle-closure risk must be assessed prior to instillation.
3.5 Scopolamine
An anticholinergic drug that is more formally used to treat motion sickness and postoperative nausea and vomiting, this medication also affects the eye via pupil dilation and can cause blurry vision as a side effect. A review of the agent noted a clinical trial regarding systemic absorption of ocular scopolamine at 0.25% concentration and found that the agent was rapidly and efficiently absorbed without affecting patients’ blood pressure or heart rate compared to placebo [25]. Like the other anticholinergic drugs, scopolamine works by blocking acetylcholine on eye muscles causing these muscles to relax, which decreases ocular pain and also widens the pupil causing the lens to temporarily lose ability to focus.
4 Anti-Inflammatory Agents
4.1 Anti-Inflammatory Agents: Steroid Medications
This class of drugs is indicated for treatment of postoperative intraocular inflammation and for pain management. Corticosteroids are potent anti-inflammatory drugs used for the treatment of intraocular inflammation due to their ability to inhibit production of various inflammation-causing mediators (Table 4) [26, 27]. However, many practitioners utilize topical steroids for the treatment of ocular inflammation secondary to traumatic injury, especially when potentially concurrent infectious etiologies have been ruled out and/or adequately treated. Even among ophthalmologists, the use of topical steroids in the presence of corneal infection, with regard to optimal timing and dosing, is very controversial [28]. In select cases, injectable steroids (dexamethasone and triamcinolone), oral steroids (prednisone), and intravenous steroids may be given at the discretion of the clinician. This section will primarily cover topical steroids, and readers are encouraged to consult other resources for information regarding injectable and systemic steroids.
Table 4
Overview of topical steroids regarding available formulations, in vitro relative potency, in vivo relative anti-inflammatory activity and other notes
Shorter duration of effect, with fewer adverse reactions
Difluprednate
0.05% emulsion
1,800
60
High propensity to elevated IOP 2nd line agent for recalcitrant ocular inflammation
Fluorometholone
0.1%, 0.25% suspension
350
40
Acetate base offers greater penetration than alcohol formulation
Rimexolone
1% suspension
300
25
Requires IOP monitoring in pediatric patients
Dexamethasone
0.1% solution
400
25
Poor ocular penetration
Hydrocortisone
1%, 2.5% ointment
n/a
n/a
Methylprednisolone
Requires compounding pharmacy
n/a
n/a
IOP intraocular pressure
Notable side effects of steroids are accelerated development of posterior subcapsular cataracts and increased intraocular pressure (IOP). Furthermore, steroids can delay corneal wound healing and can worsen herpes simplex virus (HSV) keratitis, bacterial keratitis, and fungal keratitis [22]. Practitioners unfamiliar with ocular injuries should exercise extreme caution prior to dispensing ophthalmic steroids; referral to eye-care practitioners is warranted in most cases.
Finally, topical ophthalmic steroids must be tapered carefully in order to prevent rebound inflammation. Patients should be counseled and educated regarding individual tapering schedules.
4.1.1 Prednisolone Acetate (0.125% and 1%) and Prednisolone Phosphate 1%
Prednisolone is a ketone-based steroid. Prednisolone acetate 1% is among the most commonly utilized topical steroids among eye-care practitioners due its potent anti-inflammatory effects, long-term track record, and financial cost. As this drug is formulated in a suspension, it is important for practitioners to educate patients regarding the importance of adequate “shaking” of the bottle prior to instillation. Previous studies have reported an ideal “shake amount” of approximately 16–20 shakes prior to instilling the medication, with more than 60% of subjects failing to properly shake the bottle [29]. Prednisolone acetate is also available as a 0.125% formulation (Pred Mild, Novartis).
Prednisolone phosphate 1% is formulated as a solution and does not require shaking. However, it exerts significantly less anti-inflammatory effects when compared to prednisolone acetate 1%. Some practitioners prefer this medication when ocular surface inflammation requires primary treatment, and intraocular inflammation is minimally present.
Both prednisolone acetate 0.125% and prednisolone phosphate 1% may be favorable for the treatment of mild ocular inflammation, especially in patients with pre-existing glaucoma and steroid-responders.
4.1.2 Loteprednol
These agents are ester-based steroids in which the position 20 ester group replaces the ketone group of prednisolone acetate [30]. Due to effects of local esterases, loteprednol undergoes degradation into an inactive metabolite after a shorter duration of effect [31]. Therefore, in comparison to prednisolone, loteprednol has lower likelihood of causing unwanted side effects such as posterior subcapsular cataracts and increased IOP [22]. A number of formulations are available, including Lotemax 0.5% suspension, 0.38% gel, and 0.5% ointment (Bausch and Lomb); Inveltys 1% suspension and Eysuvis 0.25% suspension (Kala Pharmaceuticals); and Alrex 0.2% suspension (Bausch and Lomb). While the suspension formulations require shaking, gel formulations do not require shaking, offer superior viscosity, and maintain duration of effect [29].
Zylet, which is a combination of loteprednol 0.5% suspension and tobramycin, is another popularly used medication for the treatment of concurrent ocular inflammation with minimal infection.
The trade name Lotemax is available as a suspension, gel, and ointment. The trade name Alrex is a suspension available in 0.2% concentration and thus needs to be shaken. The gel formulation is available as a 0.5% concentration and does not require shaking. The ointment formulation is a preservative-free preparation indicated for post-operative eye care.
4.1.3 Difluprednate
This drug is formulated as an emulsion at 0.05% concentration and does not require shaking prior to instillation. Compared to prednisolone formulations, this agent has a longer duration of action and more potency as compared to prednisolone acetate 1% for treatment of intraocular inflammation. This permits less frequent dosing with non-inferior efficacy [32]. It should be noted that the majority of studies that have assessed the efficacy and safety of this agent have primarily been in the setting of endogenous uveitis and post-surgical inflammation. Reports in the literature regarding its efficacy in the setting of corneal injury are extremely limited. Nonetheless, many practitioners utilize this medication for control of severe inflammation or for recrudescent disease.
Multiple case reports have noted that this medication can cause a significant elevation in IOP that may be higher than other topical steroids, especially in pediatric patients [32, 33]. There is additionally a significant financial cost to obtain this medication.
4.1.4 Fluorometholone 0.1%
Fluorometholone is a glucocorticoid with similar potency, decreased intraocular penetration, and side-effect profile as loteprednol. This medication is available in a variety of formulations, including suspensions and ointments.
Among suspensions, available options include fluorometholone alcohol 0.1% (FML, Allergan; Fluor-Op, Novartis) and fluorometholone with acetate base (Flarex, Alcon Laboratories, Inc, and fFlone, Novartis). The acetate base offers better penetration as compared to the alcohol formulation [34]. Although this agent has less tendency to increase IOP than other ketone-based steroids, ester-based loteprednol may be a better long-term option.
Fluorometholone is also available in a 0.25% concentration (FML Forte, Allergan) and an ophthalmic ointment.
4.1.5 Rimexolone
Formulated as 1% concentration, rimexolone (Vexol; Alcon Laboratories, Inc.) is a glucocorticoid steroid approved for the treatment of postoperative inflammation after ocular surgery. This agent has garnered interest as it exerts similar anti-inflammatory effects as prednisolone acetate, but has an IOP response rate similar to fluorometholone [35]. A clinical trial concluded that rimexolone seems to be a more effective anti-inflammatory agent compared to fluorometholone and prednisolone acetate 1% [36]. However, it is suggested to monitor the IOP regularly in the pediatric population when using this agent due to a higher ocular-hypertensive effect compared to adults [35] .
4.1.6 Dexamethasone
Dexamethasone, a ketone-based steroid suspension, has poor penetration into the eye and thus may not be an ideal agent for the treatment of ocular inflammation. However, it effectively treats surface inflammation. It is commonly used as an injectable medication. Among ophthalmic steroids, dexamethasone has an extremely high propensity to increase IOP [37] .
4.1.7 Hydrocortisone
Hydrocortisone is primarily used in ointment formulation for topical use. It is commonly available in combination with antibiotics, such as neomycin and polymyxin B (Maxitrol, Bausch and Lomb), and used by practitioners for treatment of ocular injury, especially when combined with patching postoperatively. As a single agent, data are limited regarding its efficacy in the ophthalmic literature. One study evaluating 411 patients with both hydrocortisone acetate 2.5% and hydrocortisone acetate 1% eye ointments reported that both formulations are efficacious and safe treatments for acute inflammation of the ocular surface or adnexa [38].
4.1.8 Preservative-Free Methylprednisolone
Short-term use (off-label) of topical corticosteroids can aid in symptomatic dry eye patients with recalcitrant and refractory ocular surface disease, whether as a direct result or sequela of ocular injury. Preparation of this medication typically requires the use of specialty and/or compounding pharmacies, and is therefore ideally best suited for refractory and/or severe pathology. A study on 105 eyes showed that topical use of preservative-free methylprednisolone can be used in pulse therapy for long-term treatment of dry eye in keratoconjunctivitis sicca (KCS) patients with Sjögren’s syndrome [39]. Furthermore, there were no serious complications including IOP elevation or cataract formation in the follow-up period. Compared to preserved prednisolone, the non-preservative drops exhibited a lower ocular surface toxicity profile and milder subjective discomfort [40]. Reports in the literature regarding utilization of this medication in the setting of ocular injuries is extremely limited.
Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are used for the treatment of ocular inflammation and pain, either as standalone agents or in combination with steroid medications (Table 5). The primary mechanism of action is the inhibition of the cyclooxygenase (COX) enzyme to block the conversion of arachidonic acid into prostaglandins. NSAIDs have also been shown to prevent long-term unwanted sequelae of prolonged intraocular inflammation, such as cystoid macular edema (CME) [41]. However, the routine use of perioperative NSAIDs continues to be a source of debate in the ophthalmic literature.
Table 5
Overview of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory agents regarding bottle sizes, dosing and other notes
NSAID
Bottle size
Dosing
Other notes
Ketorolac Tromethamine 0.4–0.5%
5 ml
QID
Pediatric use at 3 years
Available in preservative-free formulation (Acuvail, 0.45%)
Associated with corneal ulceration when used on compromised and neurotrophic ocular surface
Diclofenac sodium 0.1%
2.5 ml, 5 ml
QID
Compared to Ketorolac, may have more pronounced and longer lasting effects in regards to corneal sensitivity
Nepafenac 0.1%
3 ml
TID
Pediatric use at 10 years
Must be shaken before instillation
Prodrug which is converted to amfenac by corneal esterases
Nepafenac 0.3%
1.7 ml
QD
Pediatric use at 10 years
Must be shaken before instillation
Bromfenac 0.075%
5 ml
n/a
Do not use in sulfite allergy
Not a prodrug
Desired qualities of topical NSAIDs include effective anti-inflammatory capabilities, rapid onset of action to reduce ocular inflammation, acceptable safety profile and convenient dosing regimen [42]. NSAID molecules have poor intraocular penetration and thus require alteration in order to increase their bioavailability [43]. Since these medications are primarily weakly acidic, the pH must be raised in order to increase the unionized fraction of the drug to improve corneal penetration. Another approach is to increase halogenation of NSAIDs to improve potency and increase corneal penetration [44]. Additionally, while preservatives such as benzalkonium chloride (BAK) are often added to augment ocular penetration, this increases ocular surface toxicity [45]. Thus, the use of topical NSAIDs for reasonable time lengths (between 2 and 6 weeks) appears safe with proper monitoring for side effects. These agents must be used cautiously due to potential for corneal toxicity and melting [46, 47]. In addition, there have been recent reports that have noted increased ocular bleeding, including hyphema, associated with topical NSAIDs after ocular surgery [48].
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Overall, practitioners may choose from several readily available medications. While dosing regimens and patient-incurred costs may vary, there are no clear guidelines regarding the superiority or preferred practice patterns of one agent over another.
4.2.1 Ketorolac Tromethamine 0.4–0.5%
Due to the addition of tromethamine to increase corneal permeability, ketorolac has significant side effects of ocular surface irritation. Modifications of this agent include decreasing the concentration of the solution, adding a phosphate buffer to the formulation, and/or varying the pH level [49]. Ketorolac is also available in a preservative-free formulation (Acuvail, 0.45%), which may be useful in patients with corneal injury.
4.2.2 Diclofenac Sodium 0.1%
Diclofenac is usually available in the sodium salt form as this form has been found to have increased solubility [50].
Both ketorolac and diclofenac have been the historical benchmark for topical NSAIDs. With regard to corneal sensitivity, a head-to-head study found that both agents decreased corneal sensitivity significantly but were more pronounced and longer lasting with diclofenac [51, 52]. Both drugs are well tolerated and useful for pain reduction post-refractive corneal surgery.
4.2.3 Nepafenac
Nepafenac is a prodrug that undergoes enzymatic conversion after corneal penetration into the active compound of amfenac sodium. Available formulations include Ilevro 0.3% (Alcon Laboratories) and Nevanac 0.1% (Alcon Laboratories). The higher concentration of the former allows for once-daily dosing compared to the latter. Both medications are suspensions that must be shaken before instillation.
4.2.4 Bromfenac
Bromfenac has increased lipophilicity and an additional halogenated bromine moiety to increase lipophilicity and enhance COX inhibition [44]. It is ten times more potent than diclofenac and 18 times more potent than ketorolac [53, 54]. Of note, while bromfenac is an amfenac derivative, it is not a prodrug like nepafenac. As such, this medication does not require enzymatic activation into a metabolically active form in order to exert its therapeutic effect. Clinical data in animal models have shown sustained and detectable drug levels for 24 h in ocular tissues [55].
In 2009, Xibrom (bromfenac 0.09%; Bausch and Lomb) was introduced with twice-daily dosing. One year later, Bromday (bromfenac 0.09%; Bausch and Lomb) was available with the advantage of once-daily dosing. More recently, Prolensa (bromfenac 0.07%; Bausch and Lomb) has become available with a lower concentration, pH of 7.8, and once-daily dosing. In early 2016, the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved BromSite (Sun Pharmaceuticals) as the first NSAID to prevent ocular pain post-cataract surgery and inflammation. The low concentration of 0.075% is achieved by its delivery vehicle, which extends the amount of time the drug is on the ocular surface [56].
Of note, any bromfenac formulation should not be used in patients with a sulfite allergy, which is seen more frequently in asthmatic patients.
4.3 Immunomodulating Agents
Besides steroids and NSAIDs, several other agents may be used in the management of corneal injuries. This section discusses commonly used immunomodulators that can be used to alter the immune system activity and secondarily decrease ocular inflammation. Practitioners may use these medications as monotherapy agents or in conjunction with previously discussed anti-inflammatory medications. A popularly employed strategy is to combine low-potency topical steroids with an immunomodulatory agent, especially in the treatment of refractory ocular surface disease.
Cyclosporine and lifitegrast are two commonly used topical immunomodulators in ophthalmic practice. To date, there are no comparative trials that assess the superiority of one agent over the other. Clinicians commonly utilize both agents according to clinical experience, type of ocular surface disease, and patient access/health insurance coverage of a given medication. Several compounding pharmacies have also recently introduced cyclosporine formulations.
4.3.1 Cyclosporine
Cyclosporine inhibits calcineurin, which is involved in upregulation of various cytokines that activate T cells. By inhibiting T cells, topical cyclosporine inhibits ocular surface inflammation and secondarily increases aqueous tear production in patients with aqueous tear deficiency. It is frequently used in the management of ocular surface disease and keratoconjunctivitis sicca when used in a twice-daily dosing regimen.
Several formulations of cyclosporine are commercially available. Restasis (0.05% concentration; Allergan) and Cequa (0.09% concentration; Sun Ophthalmics) are commonly used for treatment of ocular surface disease. Some practitioners may choose to additionally utilize these medications to treat severe dry eye disease that results concurrent with or as a result of corneal injury.
Common side effects include ocular surface irritation, conjunctival hyperemia, and blurred vision. Beneficial effects of this medication may take 3 months to occur, so patients must be counseled regarding expectations and timeframe of effect.
4.3.2 Lifitegrast
Lifitegrast inhibits LFA-1, which is involved, along with its ligand, intercellular adhesion molecule 1 (ICAM-1), in upregulation of lymphocytes, cytokine secretion, cell destruction, and other inflammatory responses that aggravate ocular surface disease [57]. Commercially, this agent is available as Xiidra (Novartis), which is a 5% concentration solution that can be used in patients with severe and refractory ocular surface disease [58]. In clinical trials, Xiidra improved ocular discomfort and eye dryness compared to placebo when used twice daily over 84 days [59].
Lifitegrast has similar side effects to cyclosporine. Notably, some patients may report a metallic taste after instillation of the medication. Beneficial effects of this medication may take up to 8 weeks to occur.
5 Oral Agents
5.1 Antibiotics (Off-Label Use)
5.1.1 Tetracyclines
Among the tetracyclines, oral doxycycline is an agent of interest among eye-care practitioners in the treatment of ocular surface disease. While at high doses oral doxycycline primarily has an antimicrobial effect, at low doses it can be used as an effective and economical anti-inflammatory with minimal side effects. Specifically, doxycycline is highly effective at inhibiting pro-inflammatory cytokines, including matrix metalloproteinases (e.g., MMP-6 and MMP-9), and inhibiting ocular flora toxic byproducts [60, 61].
With regard to off-label usage, doxycycline is especially effective for the treatment of ocular rosacea and meibomian gland disease, both which may be exacerbated by corneal injury or occur as a result of it. Dosing regimens vary among practitioners, ranging from 20–50 mg once or twice daily to higher doses for recalcitrant disease (100–200 mg once or twice daily). In general, clinicians should strive to use the least amount of this antibiotic in order to still maintain therapeutic effect. A recent Cochrane database review concluded that there was insufficient evidence to draw any meaningful conclusions on the use of oral antibiotics for chronic blepharitis [62].
While a variety of side effects are common to other antibiotics (e.g., nausea, vomiting, etc.), there are several side effects unique to this class of medications that patients should be counseled about. For example, photosensitivity/skin rash may occur, so patients should be advised to use sun protection and avoid excessive sunlight. Doxycycline is the preferred agent when patients have allergies to penicillin and sulfa drugs.
Minocycline may also be used in a similar manner [63]. Currently, Phase 2 clinical trials regarding the potential role of topical minocycline are being conducted [64].
5.1.2 Macrolides
Macrolides are primarily bacteriostatic, time-dependent antibiotics that are used topically for prophylaxis. Erythromycin is the most commonly utilized agent in this class, and is often used for protection of the ocular surface, treatment of corneal epithelial injury, and treatment of ocular surface flora. It is especially effective in pediatric patients due to its low side-effect profile when used topically, particularly in the setting of acute ocular injuries. Unfortunately, because of its long-term use for decades, many bacteria are increasingly resistant to erythromycin so it should not be considered as a therapeutic agent in the setting of active ocular infection. Many practitioners utilize this medication as a lubricating ointment to be used during sleeping in order to prevent deleterious effects of exposure keratopathy in the setting of ocular injuries.
Azithromycin differs from erythromycin by its inclusion of a nitrogen-methyl group in the lactone ring that improves drug stability in acidic environments [65]. It can be used topically or systemically. AzaSite (Inspire Pharmaceuticals) is an ophthalmic solution used for the treatment of bacterial conjunctivitis and blepharitis with low intraocular penetration. Several studies have shown that this agent has prolonged residence time on the ocular surface and requires a less frequent dosing regimen [66]. Collectively, the results of both published and unpublished studies of azithromycin for the treatment of blepharitis suggest significant benefit in the treatment of either posterior blepharitis or mixed anterior-posterior blepharitis [67]. Compared to erythromycin, azithromycin demonstrated superiority in the treatment of chronic mixed anterior blepharitis [68]. Side effects of this medication include potential acute glaucoma and anterior chamber toxicity [69].
Oral azithromycin may also be used as a pulse-dose or low-dose medication for the treatment of ocular surface disease in a similar manner to doxycycline. Given its role in the treatment of community-acquired pneumonias, practitioners may wish to limit the use of oral azithromycin for treatment of ocular diseases when other options have not been utilized.
5.2 Vitamins
5.2.1 Vitamin C
Corneal wound healing after ocular injury or infection is an intricate and multifactorial process. A significant and potentially vision-limiting component of corneal wound healing is the development of corneal haze and scarring secondary to changes in the extracellular matrix and corneal neovascularization [70]. Vitamin C neutralizes oxygen free radicals and inhibits damage to neighboring epithelial and stromal tissues surrounding a wound with protective effects on the cornea. Several studies have demonstrated the importance of vitamin C in generation of healthy keratocyte tissue, enhancement of collagen synthesis, and suppression of corneal neovascularization [71, 72]. Another proposed mechanism of action is that ascorbic acid accelerates corneal epithelial wound healing by enhancing and upregulating corneal epithelial stem/progenitor cells [73].
A study of 82 eyes affected with infectious keratitis treated with both intravenous and oral vitamin C found that systemic vitamin C supplementation reduced corneal opacity size [74]. This finding may be of particular interest to clinicians when treating patients with infectious keratitis in the context of corneal injury. As mentioned previously, the use of corticosteroids continues to be controversial due to concerns in delaying wound healing and prolonging infection [75]. As such, vitamin C supplementation may be an effective means to decrease unwanted corneal opacity without incurring potential side effects of steroids. Furthermore, vitamin C may additionally be useful in cases of exuberant ocular surface inflammation associated with corneal thinning and risk of perforation, such as may occur in the setting of chemical and/or thermal injury.
6 Amniotic Membrane Therapies
Amniotic membrane (AM) has become a popularly used tool in the treatment of ocular surface disease, ocular injuries, neurotrophic disease, and infectious keratitis (Table 6). When used as a mechanical device, as discussed below, the epithelium and stroma possess a number of beneficial cytokines and growth factors [76]. While the exact mechanism of action remains to be elucidated, it is thought that AM serves as a scaffold-like substrate promoting epithelial migration and re-epithelialization. The full discussion of cytokine activity and immune mechanisms is beyond the scope of this article, but has been reported extensively in the literature [77, 78].
Table 6
Overview of amniotic membrane therapies (AMTs) regarding their advantages, disadvantages and examples of each therapy
AMT
Advantages
Disadvantages
Examples
Amniotic membrane extract (AME)
Can be used to formulate eyedrops ± umbilical cord blood
Not approved by US Food and Drug Administration
Regenesol®
Avoids mechanical placement of amniotic membrane (AM) tissue
Genesis ACE®
Amniotic fluid eyedrops (AF)
Contains variety of electrolytes, growth factors and cytokines that help promote ocular surface healing
Regener-Eyes®
Avoids mechanical placement of AM tissue
Cryopreserved
AMT
Cryopreservation better preserves fetal tissues’ structural and biological signaling molecules
Requires in-office or surgical placement
Prokera®
Reduces pain, haze, and inflammation
Can treat moderate dry eye diseases
Dehydrated AMT
Air or heat is used to remove moisture from AM
Requires in-office or surgical placement and requires additional placement of bandage contact lens with use of topical antibiotic drops
AmbioDisk®
Aril®
Sursight®
Absence of a symblepharon ring increases tolerability
Eclipse®
Anzeige
AM can be used in eyedrop form or as a mechanical barrier placed on the eye via amniotic membrane transplantation (AMT).
6.1 Amniotic Membrane Extract (AME) and Amniotic Fluid (AF) Eyedrops
Amniotic membrane extract (AME) can be used to formulate eyedrops, with or without umbilical cord blood. This combination may be advantageous because the active-matrix component responsible for exerting the anti-inflammatory effects of AM (HC-HA/PTX3 complex) is also found in cord blood, which is more effective than AM in inhibiting inflammatory markers [79]. Amniotic fluid (AF) contains a variety of beneficial electrolytes, growth factors, and cytokines that help promote ocular surface healing [80].
While several of these products are available in the USA, it is important to note that none of these products, at the time of writing, are approved by the FDA. Regenesol (Biotissue/Tissue Tech Inc., Miami, FL, USA) is an AME combined with cord blood. Genesis ACE (Ocular Science Inc.; Manhattan Beach, CA, USA) is a cryopreserved AM drop that can be used twice daily. Finally, Regener-Eyes (Regener-Eyes; Palm Beach, FL, USA) is an AF eyedrop that can be used one to four times daily.
A major advantage of AME and AF eyedrops is to avoid mechanical placement of AM tissue (as discussed in the next section) and its associated complications. When prepared from fresh tissue, these eyedrops may contain epithelial cells that may help in regeneration as stem cells [81]. These eyedrops may be used in conjunction with AM placement for severe cases. This is an area of significant research interest and it remains to be seen how effective AME and AF eyedrops can be in the future, especially in comparison to currently existing therapies.
Cryopreservation is the most common preservation technique for amniotic membranes. Compared to the dehydrated AMT, cryopreservation better preserves the fetal tissues’ structural and biological signaling molecules [82]. Prokera (BioTissue) is a temporary and sutureless AMT that allows for easy insertion and replacement in the office. This therapy reduces pain, haze, and inflammation associated with severe bacterial keratitis and other ocular surface disease states [83]. Although limited use of cryopreserved AMT is a safe and effective way to promote healing of the ocular surface, recurrence of underlying primary pathology is a concern [84]. Furthermore, cryopreserved AMT can be used to treat moderate dry eye diseases, even generating improvement in the contralateral eyes [85]. However, there may be more pain associated with cryopreserved products due to presence of a symblepharon ring in this form of AMT.
When used judiciously, cryopreserved AMT can be extremely beneficial for the treatment of severe ocular surface disease and injury. However, it is the authors’ opinion that AMT has recently been overutilized and misused in the treatment of ocular injuries, potentially due to its favorable reimbursement schedule.
Air or heat is used to remove moisture from the amniotic membrane and gamma irradiation is used to sterilize the tissue [86]. A study on nine eyes found that sutureless dehydrated AMT achieved resolution of persistent epithelial defects secondary to various etiologies in 89% of the eyes with significant improvement in vision [87]. There are a variety of dehydrated AMT products available, such as AmbioDisk (Katena), Aril (Seed Biotech), Sursight (Surgenex), and Eclipse (Ophthalogix). One advantage of dehydrated AMT products, such as AmbioDisk, is that they include retention of all three layers of the AM, including the intermediate layer, which possesses additional beneficial growth factors [88]. In addition, the absence of a symblepharon ring may make these products more tolerable on the ocular surface, especially in the setting of an already inflamed and painful eye. Finally, it should be noted that dehydrated AMT requires an additional placement of a bandage contact lens with use of topical antibiotic drops for infection prophylaxis.
7 Blood-Based Therapies
A significant number of peer-reviewed papers involving blood-derived eyedrops have been published recently showing the expanded indication for treatment, including ocular surface disease, persistent epithelial defects, neurotrophic corneal disease, and limbal stem cell disease (Table 7) [89, 90]. However, there are still several issues under debate related both to the lack of a standardized protocol for preparation and storage, and to the absence of clinical consensus regarding strategies for clinical outcomes, patients’ stratification, length of treatment, and the rationale for repeated treatments. In the USA, blood and blood products are under the surveillance of the FDA [91] .
Table 7
Overview of blood-based therapies and notable advantages and disadvantages
Blood-based therapies
Advantages
Disadvantages
Autologous serum tears (ASTs)
Similar composition tears
Effective in treating persistent epithelial defects and severe dry eye
Concentrations ranging from 20–90% can be used depending on severity of ocular surface disease
Requires patient blood drawn
Patient’s blood may contain unwanted autoantibodies or cytokines precluding effective use
Allogenic peripheral blood serum tears (APBSTs)
Works around the disadvantages of ASTs
Requires ABO antigen matching between donors and recipients
Higher concentration of multiple growth factors compared to other blood derived products
Needs to be obtained from umbilical cord serum at time of delivery
Platelet-derived tears (PDTs)
Includes platelet-rich plasma (PRP) tears and plasma-enriched growth factors (PRGF) tears
Both allogenic and autologous sources can be used
Compared to ASTs, PRGF eyedrops exert better wound healing
May benefit patients suffering from autoimmune diseases
Clinicians are able to make tears in office
Finger-prick autologous blood (FAB)
Cheaper and more convenient
7.1 Autologous Serum Tears
Serum obtained by blood draw is a commonly used product for the formulation of eyedrops. The benefits of autologous serum tears (ASTs) may be due to their similar composition to tears and various epitheliotrophic growth factors [92]. Patients’ serum is usually with a salt solution, preservative-free normal saline, or another sterile, preservative-free, eye-compatible solution at appropriate concentration (20–100%) in order to produce autologous serum tears (ASTs) [93]. Studies have shown that although ASTs may be effective in treating persistent epithelial defects and severe dry eye with few adverse effects [94‐97]. Despite several clinical trials showing the safety and efficacy of ASTs, a recent Cochrane meta-analysis failed to show significant results owing to low evidence [98]. ASTs can be dosed four to six times a day. Nevertheless, many practitioners employ the use of ASTs for the treatment of recalcitrant ocular surface disease, including variants that demonstrate limbal pathology [99] or associated with systemic chemotherapy toxicity [100]. Additionally, randomized controlled trials have concluded that serum therapy aids in faster re-epithelialization of post-keratoplasty epithelial defects compared to artificial tears [101, 102].
7.2 Allogenic Peripheral Blood Serum Tears
In some cases, patients may not be able to safely have blood drawn or there may be an unwanted number of serum-derived autoantibodies or pro-inflammatory cytokines present in the blood of patients with inflammatory comorbidities, precluding the effective use of ASTs. There is increasing interest in the use of allogenic donors for the production of allogenic peripheral blood serum tears (APBSTs) [103]. APBST production remains a challenge to ensure hemato-immunological ABO antigen matching between donors and recipients. Infection surveillance, similar to other transfused blood products, is another important consideration that may restrict the use of APBSTs to select patient populations.
7.3 Allogenic Umbilical Cord Blood Serum Tears
Allogenic umbilical cord blood serum tears (AUCBSTs) can be obtained from umbilical cord serum taken at the time of delivery. Similar infectious surveillance to that described with APBSTs must be undertaken. AUCBSTs have a higher concentration of multiple growth factors compared to other blood-derived products, though notably have a lower level of IGF-1 and vitamin A when compared to APBSTs [104].
7.4 Platelet-Derived Tears
Platelet-derived tears (PDTs) include several variants, including platelet-rich plasma (PRP) tears and plasma-enriched growth factors (PRGF) tears. PDTs have an extremely favorable concentration of growth factors and cytokines [105]. Both allogenic and autologous sources can be used, though the latter is preferred, whenever possible, due to factors discussed previously.
Plasma-enriched growth factor (PRGF) eyedrops are similarly derived from a patient’s own blood with several notable differences. First, PRGF eyedrops include a patient’s plasma, as well as a high concentration of platelets, as compared to ASTs. Studies have suggested that PRGF eyedrops exert better wound healing on the ocular surface compared to ASTs [106, 107]. Through more potent regenerative and anti-inflammatory effects, PGRF eyedrops minimize scar formation compared to ASTs and could be a safe and effective treatment option for refractory ocular surface lesions [108]. A newer type of PRGF eyedrop therapy involves heat inactivation, which increases proliferation and migration of ocular surface cells. A study has found that heat-inactivated PGRF eyedrops reduce complement activity and decrease IgE while still maintaining the biological activity of PGRF, which may benefit patients suffering from autoimmune diseases [109].
One key advantage of PRGF is clinicians’ ability to make the tears in-office (Endoret kit; BTI Biotechnology, Institute, Spain) rather than relying on the use of specialty blood banks and/or compounding pharmacies.
7.5 Finger-Prick Autologous Blood
Compared to the other blood products, finger-prick autologous blood (FAB) uses whole capillary blood and is a cheaper and more convenient alternative. A report studying ten eyes found that FAB therapy alongside conventional treatment successfully managed refractory persistent epithelial defects without adverse effects [110]. Furthermore, FAB therapy was shown to be safe and effective in the treatment of dry eye syndrome in 29 eyes [111]. Although not autologous, a case study found that even maternal allogenic blood was successful in closing an epithelial defect without immunological reaction [112].
8 Mechanical Barrier Therapies
8.1 Bandage Contact Lenses
Studies have found that bandage contact lenses (BCLs) are effective in reducing pain from traumatic abrasions with the added advantage of maintaining vision during treatment [113, 114]. BCLs may be used alone or in conjunction with AM placement to facilitate wound healing. Often, a soft contact lens is used, although other lens types can be considered such as scleral and semi-scleral lenses if the soft contact lens is unable to heal the defect [115, 116]. The lens can be left for 2 weeks to 1 month depending on the recommended wearing modality of the lens. Topical antibiotics should be strongly considered in the presence of epithelial defects in order to prevent secondary infections. Topical steroids should never be used alone when a BCL is used, unless topical antibiotics are concurrently administered.
8.2 Nonbiologic Glue: Cyanoacrylate
In cases of impending perforations, minor perforations, corneal melts, and wound leaks, cyanoacrylate glue can be used as a corneal patch. Several studies have found cyanoacrylate, especially variants with moderate-length alkyl side chains, to be effective in the treatment of corneal perforation [117‐119]. While cyanoacrylate glue prevents epithelialization in the area of the damaged cornea, it also prevents the activation of collagenases and other enzymes involved in stromal melting. Furthermore, cyanoacrylate glue itself possesses a bacteriostatic property with a favorable profile against Gram-positive organisms. It should be noted that use of this adhesive product is considered an off-label use of the medications.
Cyanoacrylate glue can be placed in the office setting with local anesthesia. Care should be undertaken to ensure no glue enters the anterior chamber, and only the necessary amount should be used to cover the defect in order to avoid inadvertently spreading onto the ocular surface. A variety of application techniques have been described [120‐122]. A BCL can additionally be placed over the glue for patient comfort, and topical antibiotics should be given along with consideration for other anti-inflammatory medications, such as systemic doxycycline and vitamin C supplementation. Topical steroids should again be used judiciously, if at all, in such cases.
A robust amount of corneal neovascularization and scarring is expected in the area underneath and adjacent to the glue. In most cases, the glue may fall off spontaneously or be removed at the discretion of the clinician.
8.3 Biologic Glue: Fibrin Glue
The first commercially available fibrin sealant (Tisseel, Baxter) was reported to be useful for the treatment of corneal perforations in 2001 [123]. Fibrin sealants consist of a thick component (fibrinogen) and thin component (thrombin) that can be mixed together to form a biologic sealant. A variety of techniques have been described, including with and without AMT placement and BCL use.
Compared to cyanoacrylate, fibrin glue may be less toxic but not as readily available [120]. Furthermore, a study found fibrin glue to be easier to use than cyanoacrylate glue due to less crust formation on the corneal surface, which can be irritating to the patient [124]. However, fibrin glue requires a significantly longer time for adhesive plug formation compared to cyanoacrylate adhesive [125]. Although cyanoacrylate-based glues have traditionally been the most widely used glue, the literature supports fibrin glue as an effective substitute for attaching biologic tissues and as surface sealants [126].
8.4 Tarsorrhaphy
This procedure involves placement of temporary or permanent sutures between the upper and lower eyelid together to facilitate corneal healing and protect a neuropathic (anesthetic) cornea that is at risk for damage and infection. The amount of tarsorrhaphy ranges from 20 to 90% of the eyelid margin, and is left to the discretion of the clinician. Tarsorrhaphy and bandage contact lenses are conventional treatment options for refractory neurotrophic corneal ulcers [127]. This procedure can similarly be combined with other therapies, such as AMT placement. Compared to patching the eye, lateral tarsorrhaphy (suturing the free outer edge of the eyelids together) provided quick relief and more rapid corneal epithelial defect healing in a study involving 36 patients [128]. Tarsorrhaphy is generally safe, can be performed quickly in the office setting, and is remarkably effective in managing non-healing and persistent epithelial defects with minimal complications. It is suggested to perform this procedure sooner rather than later when persistent epithelial defects do not respond to medical therapy [128]. Drawbacks of this technique include patient complaints due to comfort and cosmesis, and difficulty in examination of the ocular surface in cases of large tarsorrhaphies.
9 Novel Agents
A number of novel agents have recently been introduced or are undergoing late-phase clinical trials that are of significant interest to both researchers and clinicians treating ocular injuries (Table 8).
Table 8
List of novel and in-development agents with key features of each medication
Novel agent
Key points
Notable studies and tested species
Cenegermin 0.002%
First FDA-approved medication to treat persistent epithelial effects due to neurotrophic keratitis
Trials found topical recombinant human nerve growth factor (rhNGF) safe in human eyes with neurotrophic keratitis [135, 137, 158]
Clinical trials found agent to be safe and effective
Formulation is not highly stable requiring refrigeration and weekly trays being sent to patients
Topical insulin
Effective and simple adjuvant therapy
Safe for human use for neurotrophic ulcers that do not respond to standard therapy [140]
Randomized controlled trial concluded topical insulin is safe for human ocular usage [141]
Case report concludes effectiveness of insulin drop and absence of toxicity in a nondiabetic patient with a post-caustic corneal ulcer [159]
Substance P (FGLM-NH2 derived)
Studies noted successful resurfacing of corneal epithelial defects
Promotion of corneal epithelial wound healing in diabetic rats [160]
Topical administration promoted corneal epithelial wound healing in mice [161]
16-month-old boy treated with this agent resulted in resurfacing of corneal epithelial defect [142]
Insulin-like growth factor (SSSR derived)
Local administration of SSSR tetrapeptide alone or in combination with FGLM amide can treat persistent epithelial defects
Safe for human use; eyedrops containing SSSR induced rapid resurfacing of persistent epithelial defects in stem cell-positive individuals with neurotrophic keratopathy [143]
Reduces ocular irritation and promotes healing without significant neovascularization
Tbeta4 treatment decreases corneal inflammation and promotes corneal wound repair and clarity after alkali injury in mice [162]
Results of nine human patients found thatTbeta4 may provide a novel, topical approach to wound healing in chronic nonhealing neurotrophic corneal ulcers [146]
A phase 3, multicenter, randomized, double-masked, placebo-controlled clinical study to assess the safety and efficacy of RGN-259 ophthalmic solution for the treatment of neurotrophic keratopathy completed in 2020 (NCT02600429)
RGN-259 found to improve dry eye, corneal integrity, and reduce inflammation in a dry eye mouse model [163]
Clinical trials found RGN-259 eyedrops were safe and improved symptoms of severe dry eye in humans [164, 165]
Gap junction hemichannel modulators/CODA001 (antisense nucleotide)
Can aid in healing persistent epithelial defects due to ocular burn or chemical injury
Five human eyes with nonhealing ocular burn wounds treated with connexin modulation experienced reduction in inflammation and stable corneal reepithelialization [149]
Matrix therapy agent (ReGenerating Agent or RGTA)
Promotes tissue regeneration and epithelial wound closure while reducing pain reduction
Combining RFTAs with other therapies could be potential options for treating persistent epithelial defects
In preclinical studies on rabbit corneal alkali burn models, RGTA acted as tissue protector, promoting the healing process and reducing corneal inflammation [166]
A pilot study showed that RGTA was well-tolerated and led to significant pain reduction in humans and treated chronic and severe corneal dystrophies as well as corneal ulcers resistant to usual treatments [152]
RGTA was effective in 14 human eyes with persistent corneal ulcer after cessation of fortified antibiotics [167]
25 human eyes with neurotrophic keratopathy treated with RGTA had complete corneal healing [168]
9.1 Recombinant Human Nerve Growth Factor: Cenegermin
Cenegermin at 0.002% concentration is an eyedrop formulation recently approved for moderate to severe neurotrophic keratitis (NK). It is the first FDA-approved medication for the treatment of persistent epithelial defects due to NK in adult patients [129]. After gaining FDA approval in August 2018, this drug became available in the USA in early 2019.
This drug targets nerve pathology and has potential to address the underlying deficit in NK by enhancing corneal nerve growth, restoring corneal sensation, and augmenting corneal healing [130‐133]. Clinical trials in NK patients found Cenegermin eyedrops to be safe and effective in restoring corneal integrity, and a randomized control trial found that these drops have higher rates of corneal healing compared to placebo [134, 135]. Although reported adverse effects with this agent have been minor (most commonly local ocular pain), a recent case report noted corneal epithelial plaque formation associated with Cenegermin that resolved upon cessation of the drug [136]. However, this drug’s safety in randomized control trials have been well documented [135, 137].
A disadvantage of Cenegermin is that the formulation is not highly stable. The standard regimen is one drop administered six times per day for 8 weeks. Due to the unstable formulation, Cenegermin must be kept refrigerated and weekly trays are sent to patients along with an accompanying delivery system kit [138].
9.2 Topical Insulin
Several studies have found topical insulin to be an effective and simple adjuvant therapy for neurotrophic corneal ulcers, especially when these lesions are non-responsive to standard therapy [139, 140]. In diabetic patients, insulin eyedrops are effective for healing corneal epithelial defects and safe for human ocular use [141].
9.3 Substance P (FGLM-NH2 Derived)
Although the current literature on eyedrops containing substance P-derived peptides is limited, a case report of a 16-month-old boy with persistent corneal epithelial defect and NK was treated with both FGLM-NH2 and SSSR-derived tetrapeptides with successful resurfacing of the corneal epithelial defect [142]. A clinical trial with 26 eyes with persistent corneal epithelial defects associated with NK were also treated with eyedrops containing FGLM and SSSR peptides, which induced rapid resurfacing of the epithelial defects in stem cell-positive individuals with NK [143].
9.4 Insulin-Like Growth Factor (SSSR Derived)
The SSSR sequence mediates the synergistic effect of insulin-like growth factor 1 (IGF-1) with substance P on corneal epithelial wound healing. Local administration of the SSSR tetrapeptide alone or in combination with FGLM amide are potential new strategies for the treatment of persistent epithelial defects [143‐145].
Thymosin beta-4 is a protein and major cellular constituent in tissues that can promote cell migration, formation of blood vessels, and lower pro-inflammatory cytokines [146, 147]. In a study, nine patients with chronic neurotropic persistent epithelial defects were treated with topical thymosin beta-4 with all patients reporting reduced ocular irritation [146]. Patients with geographic defects showed dramatic healing without significant neovascularization.
9.6 Gap Junction Hemichannel Modulators/CODA001 (Antisense Nucleotide)
Nexagon, a connexin43 antisense gel, is a novel drug that can aid in healing persistent epithelial defects due to ocular burn or chemical injury. Connexin43 is a protein that comprises cellular gap junctions that allow for direct communication between cells and transferring of molecules [148]. Results from human trials with Nexagon in nonhealing ocular burn wounds leading to persistent epithelial defects have been encouraging in promoting vascular recovery and decreasing inflammation [149].
9.7 Matrix Therapy Agent (ReGenerating Agent or RGTA)
RGTAs are chemically bioengineered and biodegradable polymers that act to mimic the action of heparan sulfate linked to a matrix protein and to growth factors in injured tissue. Extracellular matrix components are trapped within the bioskeleton of RGTA, and due to its special structure, this large molecule only acts on the surface of injured tissue. As a result, the RGTAs promote tissue regeneration and epithelial wound closure [150, 151]. A study in 11 eyes with severe dystrophic cornea or painful corneal ulcers treated with RGTA ophthalmic solution resulted in significant pain reduction and corneal healing without side effects [152]. Another study also found RGTAs to be a useful, noninvasive approach in NK management with regard to corneal healing [153]. Furthermore, studies of keratoconus patients undergoing cross-linking found that patients receiving RGTAs had significantly faster wound healing [154, 155]. However, an uncontrolled case series of six eyes with severe corneal neurotrophic ulcers treated with RGTAs found the efficacy of this drug to not match the encouraging results of previous studies [156]. A case report found that the combined use of RGTA and cord blood serum eyedrops successfully treated a large persistent epithelial defect [157]. Combining RGTAs with other therapies could be new potential options for the successful treatment of persistent epithelial defects when just a single drug is not effective.
10 Conclusion
Management of corneal injuries/infections can be challenging, depending on the size and extent of damage. Over the years, significant technological and pharmacological advancements have been made that have significantly improved our ability to manage, follow, and treat such injuries. Clinicians may choose from a variety of currently available medications to optimize effective, economical, and efficient treatment of ocular surface injuries.
There are currently a wide array of agents used for analgesic, diagnostic, and therapeutic purposes for management for corneal pain and injury. The recently developed novel agents are an area of significant interest with diverse mechanisms of actions that have shown promising results in both animal models and humans. Cenegermin 0.002% is the first FDA-approved medication to treat neurotrophic keratitis with an excellent safety profile. In addition, the remaining novel agents discussed have proven safe in initial studies and show promise in promoting tissue regeneration and healing corneal ulcers, ocular burns, chemical injuries, and resurfacing epithelial defects.
Additional clinical evidence and experience with in-development agents should potentially offer additional therapeutic options for practitioners. There is no doubt we have much to learn, discover, and improve in order to be able to rescue vision impairments, especially in more severe cases.
Acknowledgements
The authors would like to thank the National Eye Institute and National Institutes of Health (NIH) for their support (EY030028 – DK). The authors declare no conflicts of interest. The authors contributed to the preparation of this article in accordance to authorship guidelines and standards.
Declarations
Funding
The authors received no specific funding for conducting this review.
Conflicts of interest
All authors declare that they have no conflicts of interest/competing interests.
Ethics approval
Not applicable.
Consent to participate
All clinical data shown, was obtained following written consent by the patient and as part of routine ophthalmological exam.
Consent for publication
The data is available for publication. No connection/links to the patient(s) is to be provided, as mandated by HIPAA.
Data availability
Not applicable.
Code availability
Not applicable.
Authors’ contributions
K.M.R. and D.K. proposed the outline and supervised the project. D.H.D. performed the literature search and wrote the manuscript. K.M.R. and D.K critically revised the first draft. All authors have proofread and approved the final manuscript.
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