The Change of Corneal Endothelial Permeability and Corneal Thickness after Topical Steroid Treatment

ABSTRACT

Changes of corneal endothelial permeability and corneal thickness after instillation of topical steroid was evaluated. In five rabbits, 0.1%dexamethasone eye solution was dropped into right eyes, and in another five rabbits, 1%prednisolone acetate eye solution was dropped into right eyes, and each left eyes were used as a control with dropping of Tears Naturale(r)II (Alcon-couvreur, Belgium). After dropping eyedrops for seven days, corneal endothelial permeability and corneal thickness were measured. Mean corneal thickness changed from 371.4 micrometer to 334.2 micrometer after dropping eyedrops in 0.1%dexamethasone group, and from 375.8 micrometer to 347.8 micrometer in control group where no statistical difference was noted between the two groups. Corneal endothelial permeability was 3.58x10(-4)cm/min in 0.1%dexamethasone group, and 3.54x10(-4) cm/min in control group(p>0.05). Mean corneal thickness changed from 347.4 micrometer to 323.8 micrometer after dropping eyedrops in 1% prednisolone acetate group, and from 342.4 micrometer to 335.6 micrometer in control group. There was also no statistical difference between the two groups. Corneal endothelial permeability was 4.08x10(-4)cm/min in 1%prednisolone acetate group, and 4.26x10(-4) cm/min in control group(p>0.05). In conclusion, topical application of 0.1%dexamethasone or 1%prednisolone acetate for a short period may have no effect on corneal endothelial permeability and thickness.