Age-related modifications of corneal sensitivity.
OBJECTIVE
To evaluate central and peripheral corneal sensitivity (CS) in relation to age.


METHODS
Five hundred eyes of 320 healthy subjects (185 males and 135 females) were examined. The age of participants ranged from 20 to 90 years. All subjects were divided into 3 groups according to age. CS was assessed with the Cochet-Bonnet esthesiometer in the central cornea and in 8 peripheral points. The averages were used as the values of central and peripheral CS.


RESULTS
In the young population, CS was equal in both examined zones (p > 0.05); although, with respect to the periphery after the fifth decade, it was significantly higher in the centre (p < 0.05). Both central and peripheral sensitivity decreased with age (p < 0.05), and such variations are represented by parabolic curves. No differences were observed between males and females.


CONCLUSIONS
The age-related decrement of CS involves at first the corneal periphery and successively spreads toward the central zone. Topographical distribution and age-related modifications should be considered in clinical investigations of CS, especially in patients who underwent any corneal surgical procedure.
Roszkowska
Anna M
AM
Ophthalmology Clinic, Department of the Surgical Specialties, University of Messina, Messina, Italy. anrosz@tiscalinet.it
Colosi
Pietro
P
Ferreri
Felicia M B
FM
Galasso
Santo
S
D000328:Adult; D000368:Aged; D000369:Aged, 80 and over; D000375:Aging / Q000502:physiology*; D003315:Cornea / Q000294:innervation / Q000502:physiology*; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D012677:Sensation / Q000502:physiology*; D014276:Trigeminal Nerve / Q000502:physiology