Recombinant tissue plasminogen activator following paediatric cataract surgery.
BACKGROUND
The use of recombinant tissue plasminogen activator (r-TPA) has been advocated in the treatment of postsurgical fibrinous membrane formation following cataract surgery in adults. Its use in paediatric cases is not well documented.


METHODS
A retrospective review of paediatric cataract extractions performed at Moorfields Eye Hospital between 1 January 1997 and 4 April 1999 was carried out.


RESULTS
Cataract extractions were performed in 37 patients, 22 in males 15 in females. Four (9.2%) underwent intracameral injection of 25 microg r-TPA. They were all females of Afro-Caribbean origin. The time to injection varied from 4-14 days, mean 7.2 days. Complete resolution of the fibrinous membrane was seen in all cases. There were no complications by the 3 month follow up.


CONCLUSIONS
r-TPA may be used safely and effectively at a dose of 25 microg for the treatment of severe fibrinous membranes following paediatric cataract extraction. It aided the visual recovery of the children and also allowed a reduced regimen of topical steroid therapy to be used postoperatively.
Mehta
J S
JS
Strabismus and Paediatric Service, Moorfields Eye Hospital, London. jodmehta@hotmail.com
Adams
G G
GG
D000867:Anterior Chamber / Q000473:pathology*; D002387:Cataract Extraction / Q000379:methods*; D002648:Child; D002675:Child, Preschool; D005260:Female; D005337:Fibrin / Q000187:drug effects; D005343:Fibrinolytic Agents / Q000008:administration & dosage*; D005355:Fibrosis / Q000517:prevention & control; D006801:Humans; D007223:Infant; D008297:Male; D011183:Postoperative Complications / Q000188:drug therapy*; D012697:Serine Endopeptidases / Q000008:administration & dosage*; D010959:Tissue Plasminogen Activator / Q000008:administration & dosage*; D014792:Visual Acuity / Q000187:drug effects
D005343:Fibrinolytic Agents; D005337:Fibrin; D012697:Serine Endopeptidases; D010959:Tissue Plasminogen Activator