Topical Insulin Drops for the Treatment of Neurotrophic Keratopathy.
Status:
Not yet recruiting
Trial end date:
2023-01-01
Target enrollment:
Participant gender:
Summary
Many diseases can affect corneal nerves. Corneas that lack normal sensation are considered
neurotrophic. Neurotrophic corneas are predisposed to persistent epithelial defects,
recurrent erosions, and corneal ulcers. These can lead to a variety of complications, from
subjective pain, discomfort, and blurry vision, to corneal perforation and endophthalmitis.
Neurotrophic corneas and the persistent epithelial defects associated with them can be very
difficult to treat. Non-invasive measures include topical drops (artificial tears,
antibiotics, or steroids), bandage contact lens, and punctal plugs. More invasive surgical
treatments include membrane grafts, tarsorrhaphy, and keratoplasty. Despite these treatments,
many neurotrophic corneas still do not heal. Our study aims to test the efficacy of topical
insulin in the treatment of neurotrophic keratopathy.