Correlation Between Pachymetry And Corneal Infection : Analytic Study
Published 2024 - 42nd Congress of the ESCRS
Reference: PP06.09 | Type: Free paper | DOI: 10.82333/xfyt-ev59
Authors: Hidan Youness* 1 , Soukaïna Layachi 1
1ophtalmology,University Hospital Center Ibn Rochd,casablanca,Morocco
Purpose
To investigate the correlation between corneal pachymetry and the severity of infectious keratitis, based on anterior segment optical coherence tomography (AS-OCT). By providing a comprehensive analysis, combining quantitative data on corneal thickness with qualitative assessments of inflammatory and tissue responses. In order to eventually, improve the management of patients with corneal infections, and optimize their visual outcomes.
Setting
The adult ophthalmology department, of the 20 August 1953’s university hospital center, Casablanca, Morocco.
Methods
We conducted a two-year retrospective and prospective observational case series. Initially, the study included seventy eyes of 35 hospitalized patients with infectious keratitis. Daily slit-lamp examinations and serial AS-OCT scans were performed before and after treatment. Currently, we are continuing to recruit new patients to further expand the scope of our study. Assessment of the severity of corneal infections was based on clinical criteria and healing status. Corneal thickness (CT) of both affected and healthy eyes, as well as infiltrate thickness (IT), were measured on high-resolution AS-OCT scans. Mean values and rates of change for each interval were calculated and compared using paired t-tests (JAMOVI 2.3.21).
Results
the first part of the study, which was retrospective, found the following results: Mean CT of affected eyes, CT of healthy eyes, and IT were 463 μm, 483 μm, and 699 μm, respectively. Visual acuity increased in 35%, and remained stable in 61% of cases. Inflammatory signs regressed in all of our patients. Epithelial defect decreased in 80% of cases. Stromal infiltration decreased in 90% of cases. However, anatomical integrity couldn’t be maintained, and evisceration was performed in 8% of cases. Regarding the association between the severity of infectious keratitis and corneal thickness, we found a p-value of 0.056; it is statistically significant if p<0.05.
As the study continues prospectively, we anticipate obtaining new results soon.
Conclusions
Contribution to ophthalmology: our study provides empirical data on the bidirectional relationship between the severity of infectious keratitis and the pachymetric variations, a subject that remains so far under-explored.
New angle of analysis: the identified pachymetric trends can influence the diagnosis and therapeutic monitoring of corneal infections, for more personalized therapeutic strategies adapted to the individual physiology of patients, thus paving the way for more targeted and effective care.
Future perspectives: it highlights the need for continued research concerning this subject in order to explore new diagnostic and therapeutic avenues in ophthalmology.