[Irradiation of cornea with ultraviolet light and riboflavin administration as a new treatment for erosive corneal processes, preliminary results in four patients].
BACKGROUND
Corneal melting is a serious condition and in many cases maybe managed only by surgery. UV-radiation with Riboflavin is a new method that may stop the melting process of the cornea.


METHODS
Four patients suffering from melting ulcera of the cornea of various origin underwent a single UV-radiation. Two ultraviolet diodes were used emitting light with an wavelength of 370 nm with an energy of 2.5 mW/cm2. The radiation time was 30 minutes. Before he radiation was performed 2-3 drops of 0.11% Riboflavinsolution were applied to the cornea. The treatment area was 6-7 mm in diameter.


RESULTS
After the treatment in three of the four patients the melting process of the cornea stopped. At least temporarily, a surgical procedure could be delayed.


CONCLUSIONS
Because of the absence of any side-effects in serious cases the method is recommended prior to surgery.
Schnitzler
E
E
Augenklinik des Universitätsklinikums Carl Gustav Carus, Technischen Universität Dresden.
Spörl
E
E
Seiler
T
T
D000328:Adult; D000368:Aged; D000369:Aged, 80 and over; D003320:Corneal Ulcer / Q000188:drug therapy* / Q000532:radiotherapy*; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D009883:Ophthalmic Solutions; D017319:Photosensitizing Agents / Q000008:administration & dosage*; D012256:Riboflavin / Q000008:administration & dosage*; D016896:Treatment Outcome; D014467:Ultraviolet Therapy / Q000379:methods*
D009883:Ophthalmic Solutions; D017319:Photosensitizing Agents; D012256:Riboflavin