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Panretinal photocoagulation has minimal effect on corneal nerve density, sensitivity
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Panretinal photocoagulation had an insignificant effect on corneal sub-basal nerve density and corneal sensitivity in diabetic patients, a study found.
“The current study suggests that [panretinal photocoagulation] does not compromise the integrity of the corneal [sub-basal nerve plexus] and purely from the corneal perspective remains a relatively safe treatment modality in the treatment of [diabetic retinopathy],” the study authors said.
The retrospective study included 38 eyes of 38 patients with diabetes mellitus or diabetic retinopathy; 19 eyes had undergone panretinal photocoagulation (PRP). Patients had similar age, body mass index, severity of retinopathy and history of smoking, and alcohol use.
Investigators used laser scanning in vivo confocal microscopy to obtain images of the corneal sub-basal nerve plexus (SBNP) and measure nerve density. They also evaluated central corneal sensitivity (CST) and neuropathy.
Study results showed mean SBNP density of 12.27 mm/mm2 in the PRP group and 12.75 mm/mm2 in the non-PRP group; the between-group difference was statistically insignificant.
The PRP group and non-PRP group had similar CST and neuropathy values, the authors said.
Disclosure: The study authors report no relevant financial disclosures.
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