The Effect of Nerve Growth Factor on Corneal Sensitivity after Laser in Situ Keratomileusis

PURPOSE: To determine if topically administered nerve growth factor (NGF) plays a role in accelerating the recovery of corneal sensitivity after laser in situ keratomileusis (LASIK). METHODS: A prospective double-masked study comparing the effect of topical NGF or balanced salt solution on corneal sensitivity after LASIK in rabbits was performed. Pre- and postoperative corneal sensitivity was assessed using the Cochet-Bonnet esthesiometer. RESULTS: Eyes that were treated with topical NGF demonstrated an earlier and faster recovery of corneal sensitivity after LASIK (p=0.0071). A statistically significant difference in corneal sensitivity was found between the topical NGF and control group at the postoperative time points of 2 weeks (p=0.0098), 3 weeks (p=0.0309), and 4 weeks (p=0.0276). CONCLUSIONS: Our results suggest that topically administered NGF plays a significant role in accelerating corneal reinnervation after LASIK.

A Case of Acquired Brown Syndrome Following Scleral Buckling

PURPOSE: To present a case of the acquired Brown syndrome caused by scleral buckling. METHODS: A 58-year-old man presented with floaters in his right eye which had developed 20days before. Rhegmatogenous retinal detachment with a retinal tear at the location of 2 o' clock was diagnosed. Radial scleral buckling was performed. Ten days after surgery, he was unable to elevate his right eye in adduction, and right superior oblique muscle overaction was presented. RESULTS: Acquired Brown syndrome caused by scleral buckling has not been documented in Korea to our knowledge. Therefore, we report this case with review of related literatures.

A Case of Unilateral Blepharochalasis Associated with Exophthalmos and Aponeurotic Ptosis

PURPOSE: To present a case of unilateral exophthalmos with aponeurotic ptosis caused by blephalochalasis. METHODS: The left upper lid blepharoplasty, levator muscle resection, prolapsed lacrimal gland fixation, and excisional biopsy of lacrimal gland was done on a 16-year-old female who had had repetitive episodes of drooping and swelling of left upper lid for 6 years. RESULTS: Up to 11months after operation, she had no episodes of drooping and swelling. Histologically, the epidermis was atropic and wrinkled, and the dermis showed diffuse edema and vascular ectasia with mild perivascular inflammatory infiltrates. Elastic staining revealed a marked decrease or fragmentation of elastic fiber. Edema and vascular ectasia were also seen in the palpebral lobe of lacrimal gland and adjacent fat tissue.