Evaluation Of Corneal Endothelial Changes Using Specular Microscope Before And After Collagen Cross Linking For The Treatment Of Keratoconus

Abstract

In conclusion, our results demonstrated that no changes in human corneal endothelium may occur following UVA/riboflavin CXL. It is always a concern that both photochemically induced free radicals and UVA irradiation itself have the potential to damage the intraocular structures including endothelium. Evaluation of the endothelial cell safety with regards to CXL is essential as it is gradually becoming the standard treatment option for progressive KC worldwide. We strongly recommend that the treatment guidelines for CXL including irradiance level and soaking time should be clearly established to minimize the toxic effects of the treatment. Therefore, corneal specialists need to be aware of the risks of CXL treatment and should document the endothelial parameters of the patients before and after the CXL treatment both for medical and legal issues.