ESCRS - PE006 - Use Of Topical Insulin For The Treatment Of Refractory Neurotrophic Corneal Ulcers

Use Of Topical Insulin For The Treatment Of Refractory Neurotrophic Corneal Ulcers

Published 2022 - 40th Congress of the ESCRS

Reference: PE006 | Type: ESONT - Abstract | DOI: 10.82333/ggmj-p420

Authors: Adriana Hernando*, Gibet Benejam 1 , Raquel Vergés 1 , Claudia Rovira 1 , Alex Esplugues 1 , Nerea Ruiz 1 , Merce Salvat 1 , Pere Romero 1

1Ophthalmology,Hospital Sant Joan de Reus,Reus,Spain

Purpose

To evaluate the effectiveness of topical insulin 1UI/ml in patients with neurotrophic ulcers refractory to standard medical and surgical treatment.

Setting/Venue

Hospital Universitari Sant Joan de Reus

Methods

Retrospective study of 3 patients with persistent neurotrophic ulcers refractory to standard treatment. They were prescribed treatment with topical insulin prepared by mixing insulin in artificial tears with poyethylene glycol and propylene glycol at a concentration of 1UI/mL. The dosage was 4 times a day.

For the results evaluation, the length of the ulcer was measured in millimeters and photos of the anterior segment were taken.

Results

2 of the 3 patients presented a good evolution. The ulcers took about 5 weeks to close after starting treatment with insulin collyrium, with improvement from the first week. In one of the cases, the corneal defect did not close and required surgical treatment with a scleral patch. No side effect was reported during treatment.

Conclusions

Insulin eye drops can be an effective treatment for refractory neurotrophic corneal ulcers. Its advantages include being an easily available, economical, and well-tolerated treatment. Further studies are needed to prove the clinical efficacy and side effects of topical insulin.