[Angiogenesis and lymphangiogenesis in the cornea. Pathogenesis, clinical implications and treatment options].
BACKGROUND
Whereas the normal cornea is devoid of blood and lymphatic vessels,both can invade the cornea secondary to a variety of corneal diseases and after surgery. This not only reduces visual acuity, but also renders such a cornea high-risk, if subsequent corneal transplantation is performed.


METHODS
A PUBMED-based literature search was carried out.


RESULTS
Current knowledge on pathogenesis, clinical implications and treatment modalities for corneal neovascularization is discussed.


CONCLUSIONS
Novel anti-angiogenic and antilymphangiogenic therapeutic strategies should reduce blindness associated with corneal neovascularization and subsequent graft rejection.
Cursiefen
C
C
Augenklinik mit Poliklinik, Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg, Erlangen. cursiefen@vision.eri.harvard.de
Seitz
B
B
Dana
M R
MR
Streilein
J W
JW
D020533:Angiogenesis Inhibitors / Q000627:therapeutic use; D001766:Blindness / Q000209:etiology / Q000517:prevention & control; D003315:Cornea / Q000473:pathology; D016510:Corneal Neovascularization / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000209:etiology / Q000473:pathology / Q000628:therapy; D016039:Corneal Transplantation; D006084:Graft Rejection; D006801:Humans; D015948:Keratoplasty, Penetrating; D017075:Laser Coagulation; D008208:Lymphatic System / Q000473:pathology*; D012307:Risk Factors; D014792:Visual Acuity
D020533:Angiogenesis Inhibitors