Better Care For Vkc: Platelet-Rich Fibrin Membrane As An Innovative Therapeutic Approach

To evaluate the effectiveness of platelet-rich fibrin (PRF) membrane in promoting corneal healing and reducing inflammation in severe vernal keratoconjunctivitis (VKC) complicated by vernal ulcers or plaques.

Department of Ophthalmology, Hassan II University Hospital Center, Fez, Morocco.

This non-comparative prospective study included seven patients (five boys and two girls; mean age 9 years) with corticosteroid-resistant VKC complicated by persistent vernal ulcers or plaques. All patients had previously received maximal medical therapy without satisfactory improvement. An autologous platelet-rich fibrin membrane was applied to the affected cornea. Topical corticosteroid therapy was maintained. Patients were evaluated at 1 week and 1 month for symptoms, corneo-conjunctival inflammation, epithelial healing, and corticosteroid requirements.

Seven children with severe VKC were included. Following PRF membrane application, rapid epithelial healing was observed. Corneal ulcers healed within an average of 5–6 days, with three patients achieving complete epithelial regeneration in less than six days. Vernal plaques required a longer healing period, with an average of nine days. Significant improvement in pain and photophobia was observed from day 3 in six patients. Treatment tolerance was good, with no infections reported. One early membrane displacement required re-application, and two patients developed transient conjunctival hyperemia.

Platelet-rich fibrin membrane appears to be a safe and effective adjunctive treatment for complicated VKC, promoting corneal healing and improving ocular comfort in pediatric patients.