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Ruiz-Lozano RE, Soifer M, Zemborain ZZ, Azar NS, Quiroga-Garza ME, Murillo S, Ma S, Komai S, Horne A, Khodor A, Rodriguez-Gutierrez LA, Stinnett SS, Farsiu S, Perez VL. Deep-Learning Based Analysis of In-Vivo Confocal Microscopy Images of the Subbasal Corneal Nerve Plexus' Inferior Whorl in Patients with Neuropathic Corneal Pain and Dry Eye Disease. Ocul Surf 2024:S1542-0124(24)00082-X. [PMID: 39098764 DOI: 10.1016/j.jtos.2024.08.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/23/2024] [Revised: 07/08/2024] [Accepted: 08/01/2024] [Indexed: 08/06/2024]
Abstract
PURPOSE To evaluate and compare subbasal corneal nerve parameters of the inferior whorl in patients with dry eye disease (DED), neuropathic corneal pain (NCP), and controls using a novel deep-learning-based algorithm to analyze in-vivo confocal microscopy (IVCM) images. METHODS Subbasal nerve plexus (SNP) images of the inferior whorl of patients with DED (n=49, 77 eyes), NCP (n=14, 24 eyes), and controls (n=41, 59 eyes) were taken with IVCM and further analyzed using an open-source artificial intelligence (AI)-based algorithm previously developed by our group. This algorithm automatically segments nerves, immune cells, and neuromas in the SNP. The following parameters were compared between groups: nerve area density, average nerve thickness, average nerve segment tortuosity, junction point density, neuroma density, and immune cell density. RESULTS 160 eyes of 104 patients (63% females), aged 56.8+15.4 years, were included. The mean nerve area density was significantly lower in the DED (P=0.012) and NCP (P<0.001) groups compared to the control group. The junction point density was lower in the NCP group (P=0.001) compared to the control group and DED group (P=0.004). The immune cell density was higher in the DED group compared with controls (P<0.001). CONCLUSIONS Deep-learning-based analysis of IVCM images of the corneal SNP inferior whorl distinguished a decreased mean nerve area density in patients with DED and NCP compared with controls and an increased immune cell density in patients with oGVHD- and SS-associated DED. These findings suggest that the inferior whorl could be used as landmark to distinguish between patients with DED and NCP.
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Affiliation(s)
- Raul E Ruiz-Lozano
- Department of Ophthalmology, Foster Center for Ocular Immunology at Duke Eye Center, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, NC, USA; Bascom Palmer Eye Institute, University of Miami, Miami, FL, USA
| | - Matias Soifer
- Department of Ophthalmology, Foster Center for Ocular Immunology at Duke Eye Center, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, NC, USA; Bascom Palmer Eye Institute, University of Miami, Miami, FL, USA
| | - Zane Z Zemborain
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Duke University, Durham, NC, USA
| | - Nadim S Azar
- Department of Ophthalmology, Foster Center for Ocular Immunology at Duke Eye Center, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, NC, USA
| | - Manuel E Quiroga-Garza
- Department of Ophthalmology, Foster Center for Ocular Immunology at Duke Eye Center, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, NC, USA; Bascom Palmer Eye Institute, University of Miami, Miami, FL, USA
| | - Sofia Murillo
- Department of Ophthalmology, Foster Center for Ocular Immunology at Duke Eye Center, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, NC, USA
| | - Symon Ma
- Department of Ophthalmology, Foster Center for Ocular Immunology at Duke Eye Center, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, NC, USA; Bascom Palmer Eye Institute, University of Miami, Miami, FL, USA
| | - Seitaro Komai
- Department of Ophthalmology, Foster Center for Ocular Immunology at Duke Eye Center, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, NC, USA; Bascom Palmer Eye Institute, University of Miami, Miami, FL, USA
| | - Anupama Horne
- Department of Ophthalmology, Ophthalmology, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, North Carolina
| | - Ali Khodor
- Bascom Palmer Eye Institute, University of Miami, Miami, FL, USA
| | | | - Sandra S Stinnett
- Biostatistics and Bioinformatics, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, NC, USA
| | - Sina Farsiu
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Duke University, Durham, NC, USA; Department of Ophthalmology, Ophthalmology, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, North Carolina
| | - Victor L Perez
- Department of Ophthalmology, Foster Center for Ocular Immunology at Duke Eye Center, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, NC, USA; Bascom Palmer Eye Institute, University of Miami, Miami, FL, USA.
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2
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Watson SL, Le DTM. Corneal neuropathic pain: a review to inform clinical practice. Eye (Lond) 2024; 38:2350-2358. [PMID: 38627548 PMCID: PMC11306374 DOI: 10.1038/s41433-024-03060-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/27/2024] [Revised: 03/25/2024] [Accepted: 04/02/2024] [Indexed: 08/09/2024] Open
Abstract
Corneal neuropathic pain (CNP) is a poorly defined disease entity characterised by an aberrant pain response to normally non-painful stimuli and categorised into having peripheral and central mechanisms, with the former responding to instillation of topical anaesthetic. CNP is a challenging condition to diagnose due to numerous aetiologies, an absence of clinical signs and ancillary tests (in vivo confocal microscopy and esthesiometry), lacking the ability to confirm the diagnosis and having limited availability. Symptomatology maybe mirrored by severe and chronic forms of dry eye disease (DED), often leading to misdiagnosis and inadequate treatment. In practice, patients with suspected CNP can be assessed with questionnaires to elicit symptoms. A thorough ocular assessment is also performed to exclude any co-existent ocular conditions. A medical and mental health history should be sought due to associations with autoimmune disease, chronic pain syndromes, anxiety and depression. Management begins with communicating to the patient the nature of their condition. Ophthalmologists can prescribe topical therapies such as autologous serum eyedrops to optimise the ocular surface and promote neural regeneration. However, a multi-disciplinary treatment approach is often required, including mental health support, particularly when there are central mechanisms. General practitioners, pain specialists, neurologists and psychologists may be needed to assist with oral and behavioural therapies. Less data is available to support the safety and efficacy of adjuvant and surgical therapies and the long-term natural history remains to be determined. Hence clinical trials and registry studies are urgently needed to fill these data gaps with the aim to improve patient care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stephanie L Watson
- The University of Sydney, Save Sight Institute, Faculty of Medicine and Health, Sydney, NSW, Australia.
- Sydney Eye Hospital, Sydney, NSW, Australia.
| | - Damien Tuan-Man Le
- The University of Sydney, Save Sight Institute, Faculty of Medicine and Health, Sydney, NSW, Australia
- Sydney Eye Hospital, Sydney, NSW, Australia
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3
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Rajan R, Makrai E, Lee JH, Singh S, Chinnery HR, Downie LE. Evaluating the efficacy and safety of therapeutic interventions for corneal neuropathy: A systematic review. Ocul Surf 2024; 33:80-98. [PMID: 38688453 DOI: 10.1016/j.jtos.2024.04.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/23/2024] [Revised: 04/19/2024] [Accepted: 04/24/2024] [Indexed: 05/02/2024]
Abstract
Corneal neuropathy involves corneal nerve damage that disrupts ocular surface integrity, negatively impacting quality-of-life from pain and impaired vision. Any ocular or systemic condition that damages the trigeminal nerve can lead to corneal neuropathy. However, the condition currently does not have standardized diagnostic criteria or treatment protocols. The primary aim of this systematic review was to evaluate the efficacy and safety of interventions for treating corneal neuropathy. Randomized controlled trials (RCTs) that investigated corneal neuropathy treatments were eligible if the intervention(s) was compared to a placebo or active comparator. Comprehensive searches were conducted in Ovid MEDLINE, Ovid Embase and clinical trial registries from inception to July 2022. The Cochrane Risk-of-Bias 2 tool was used to assess study methodological quality. Certainty of the body of evidence was assessed using the Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development and Evaluation (GRADE) approach. Overall, 20 RCTs were included. Evaluated interventions comprised regenerative therapies (n = 6 studies), dietary supplements (n = 4), anti-glycemic agents (n = 3), combination therapy (n = 3), supportive therapies (n = 2) and systemic pain pharmacotherapies (n = 2). Nine RCTs were judged at high risk of bias for most outcomes. Definitions for corneal neuropathy in the populations varied substantially across studies, consistent with lack of consensus on diagnostic criteria. A diverse range of outcomes were quantified, likely reflecting absence of an agreed core outcome set. There was insufficient evidence to draw definitive conclusions on the efficacy or safety of any intervention. There was low or very low certainty evidence for several neuroregenerative agents and dietary supplements for improving corneal nerve fiber length in corneal neuropathy due to dry eye disease and diabetes. Low or very low certainty evidence was found for neuroregenerative therapies and dietary supplements not altering corneal immune cell density. This review identifies a need to standardize the clinical definition of corneal neuropathy and define a minimum set of core outcome measures. Together, this will provide a foundation for improved phenotyping of clinical populations in studies, and improve the capacity to synthesize data to inform evidence-based care. Protocol registration: PROSPERO ID: CRD42022348475.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rajni Rajan
- Department of Optometry and Vision Sciences, University of Melbourne, Carlton, Victoria, Australia
| | - Eve Makrai
- Department of Optometry and Vision Sciences, University of Melbourne, Carlton, Victoria, Australia
| | - Ji-Hyun Lee
- Department of Optometry and Vision Sciences, University of Melbourne, Carlton, Victoria, Australia
| | - Sumeer Singh
- Department of Optometry and Vision Sciences, University of Melbourne, Carlton, Victoria, Australia
| | - Holly R Chinnery
- Department of Optometry and Vision Sciences, University of Melbourne, Carlton, Victoria, Australia
| | - Laura E Downie
- Department of Optometry and Vision Sciences, University of Melbourne, Carlton, Victoria, Australia.
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4
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Anam A, Liu C, Tong L, Liu YC. Blood-Derived Eye Drops for the Treatment of Corneal Neuropathic Pain. J Ocul Pharmacol Ther 2024; 40:281-292. [PMID: 38648544 PMCID: PMC11296151 DOI: 10.1089/jop.2023.0155] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/09/2023] [Accepted: 03/18/2024] [Indexed: 04/25/2024] Open
Abstract
Blood-derived preparations, including autologous or allogenic serum, umbilical cord serum/plasma, and platelet-rich plasma eye drops, contain various growth factors, cytokines, and immunoglobulins that resemble natural tears. These components play important roles in corneal cell migration, proliferation, and wound healing. Blood-derived eye drops have demonstrated clinical effectiveness across a spectrum of ocular surface conditions, encompassing dry eye disease, Sjögren's syndrome, graft-versus-host disease, and neuropathic corneal pain (NCP). Currently, management of NCP remains challenging. The emergence of blood-derived eye drops represents a promising therapeutic approach. In this review, we discuss the benefits and limitations of different blood-derived eye drops, their mechanisms of action, and treatment efficacy in patients with NCP. Several studies have demonstrated the clinical efficacy of autologous serum eye drops in relieving pain and pain-like symptoms, such as allodynia and photoallodynia. Corneal nerve parameters were also significantly improved, as evidenced by increased nerve fiber density, length, nerve reflectivity, and tortuosity, as well as a decreased occurrence of beading and neuromas after the treatment. The extent of nerve regeneration correlated with improvement in patient-reported photoallodynia. Cord plasma eye drops also show potential for symptom alleviation and corneal nerve regeneration. Future directions for clinical practice and research involve standardizing preparation protocols, establishing treatment guidelines, elucidating underlying mechanisms, conducting long-term clinical trials, and implementing cost-effective measures such as scaling up manufacturing. With ongoing advancements, blood-derived eye drops hold promise as a valuable therapeutic option for patients suffering from NCP.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ansa Anam
- Department of Ophthalmology, MTI Khyber Teaching Hospital, Peshawar, Pakistan
| | - Chang Liu
- Cornea and Refractive Surgery Group, Singapore Eye Research Institute, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Louis Tong
- Department of Corneal and External Eye Disease, Singapore National Eye Centre, Singapore, Singapore
- Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences Academic Clinical Program, Duke-NUS Medical School, Singapore, Singapore
- Ocular Surface Group, Singapore Eye Research Institute, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Yu-Chi Liu
- Cornea and Refractive Surgery Group, Singapore Eye Research Institute, Singapore, Singapore
- Department of Corneal and External Eye Disease, Singapore National Eye Centre, Singapore, Singapore
- Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences Academic Clinical Program, Duke-NUS Medical School, Singapore, Singapore
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Wu J, Yuan T, Fu D, Xu R, Zhang W, Li S, Ding J, Feng L, Xia Y, Wang J, Li W, Han Y. An experimental model for primary neuropathic corneal pain induced by long ciliary nerve ligation in rats. Pain 2024; 165:1391-1403. [PMID: 38227559 DOI: 10.1097/j.pain.0000000000003141] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/05/2023] [Accepted: 10/28/2023] [Indexed: 01/18/2024]
Abstract
ABSTRACT Neuropathic corneal pain (NCP) is a new and ill-defined disease characterized by pain, discomfort, aching, burning sensation, irritation, dryness, and grittiness. However, the mechanism underlying NCP remain unclear. Here, we reported a novel rat model of primary NCP induced by long ciliary nerve (LCN) ligation. After sustained LCN ligation, the rats developed increased corneal mechanical and chemical sensitivity, spontaneous blinking, and photophobia, which were ameliorated by intraperitoneal injection of morphine or gabapentin. However, neither tear reduction nor corneal injury was observed in LCN-ligated rats. Furthermore, after LCN ligation, the rats displayed a significant reduction in corneal nerve density, as well as increased tortuosity and beading nerve ending. Long ciliary nerve ligation also notably elevated corneal responsiveness under resting or menthol-stimulated conditions. At a cellular level, we observed that LCN ligation increased calcitonin gene-related peptide (neuropeptide)-positive cells in the trigeminal ganglion (TG). At a molecular level, upregulated mRNA levels of ion channels Piezo2, TRPM8, and TRPV1, as well as inflammatory factors TNF-α, IL-1β, and IL-6, were also detected in the TG after LCN ligation. Meanwhile, consecutive oral gabapentin attenuated LCN ligation-induced corneal hyperalgesia and increased levels of ion channels and inflammation factors in TG. This study provides a reliable primary NCP model induced by LCN ligation in rats using a simple, minimally invasive surgery technique, which may help shed light on the underlying cellular and molecular bases of NCP and aid in developing a new treatment for the disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jinhong Wu
- Department of Anesthesiology, Eye & ENT Hospital of Fudan University, Xuhui District, Shanghai, China
| | - Tianjie Yuan
- Department of Anesthesiology, Eye & ENT Hospital of Fudan University, Xuhui District, Shanghai, China
| | - Danyun Fu
- Department of Anesthesiology, Eye & ENT Hospital of Fudan University, Xuhui District, Shanghai, China
| | - Rui Xu
- Department of Anesthesiology, Eye & ENT Hospital of Fudan University, Xuhui District, Shanghai, China
| | - Wenna Zhang
- Department of Anesthesiology, Eye & ENT Hospital of Fudan University, Xuhui District, Shanghai, China
| | - Shuangshuang Li
- Department of Anesthesiology, Eye & ENT Hospital of Fudan University, Xuhui District, Shanghai, China
| | - Jiahui Ding
- Department of Anesthesiology, Eye & ENT Hospital of Fudan University, Xuhui District, Shanghai, China
| | - Lili Feng
- Department of Anesthesiology, Eye & ENT Hospital of Fudan University, Xuhui District, Shanghai, China
| | - Ying Xia
- Department of Anesthesiology, Eye & ENT Hospital of Fudan University, Xuhui District, Shanghai, China
| | - Jijiang Wang
- Department of Physiology and Pathophysiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Fudan University, Xuhui District, Shanghai, China
| | - Wenxian Li
- Department of Anesthesiology, Eye & ENT Hospital of Fudan University, Xuhui District, Shanghai, China
| | - Yuan Han
- Department of Anesthesiology, Eye & ENT Hospital of Fudan University, Xuhui District, Shanghai, China
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Valdés-Arias D, Locatelli EVT, Sepulveda-Beltran PA, Mangwani-Mordani S, Navia JC, Galor A. Recent United States Developments in the Pharmacological Treatment of Dry Eye Disease. Drugs 2024; 84:549-563. [PMID: 38652355 PMCID: PMC11189955 DOI: 10.1007/s40265-024-02031-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 04/01/2024] [Indexed: 04/25/2024]
Abstract
Dry eye disease (DED) can arise from a variety of factors, including inflammation, meibomian gland dysfunction (MGD), and neurosensory abnormalities. Individuals with DED may exhibit a range of clinical signs, including tear instability, reduced tear production, and epithelial disruption, that are driven by different pathophysiological contributors. Those affected often report a spectrum of pain and visual symptoms that can impact physical and mental aspects of health, placing an overall burden on an individual's well-being. This cumulative impact of DED on an individual's activities and on society underscores the importance of finding diverse and effective management strategies. Such management strategies necessitate an understanding of the underlying pathophysiological mechanisms that contribute to DED in the individual patient. Presently, the majority of approved therapies for DED address T cell-mediated inflammation, with their tolerability and effectiveness varying across different studies. However, there is an emergence of treatments that target additional aspects of the disease, including novel inflammatory pathways, abnormalities of the eyelid margin, and neuronal function. These developments may allow for a more nuanced and precise management strategy for DED. This review highlights the recent pharmacological advancements in DED therapy in the United States. It discusses the mechanisms of action of these new treatments, presents key findings from clinical trials, discusses their current stage of development, and explores their potential applicability to different sub-types of DED. By providing a comprehensive overview of products in development, this review aims to contribute valuable insights to the ongoing efforts in enhancing the therapeutic options available to individuals suffering from DED.
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Affiliation(s)
- David Valdés-Arias
- Bascom Palmer Eye Institute, University of Miami, 900 NW 17th St, Miami, FL, 33136, USA
| | - Elyana V T Locatelli
- Bascom Palmer Eye Institute, University of Miami, 900 NW 17th St, Miami, FL, 33136, USA
- Surgical Services, Miami Veterans Affairs Medical Center, 1201 Northwest 16th Street, Miami, FL, 33125, USA
| | | | | | - Juan Carlos Navia
- Bascom Palmer Eye Institute, University of Miami, 900 NW 17th St, Miami, FL, 33136, USA
| | - Anat Galor
- Bascom Palmer Eye Institute, University of Miami, 900 NW 17th St, Miami, FL, 33136, USA.
- Surgical Services, Miami Veterans Affairs Medical Center, 1201 Northwest 16th Street, Miami, FL, 33125, USA.
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McNally TW, Figueiredo FC. Corneal Neuropathic Pain: A Patient and Physician Perspective. Ophthalmol Ther 2024; 13:1041-1050. [PMID: 38363459 PMCID: PMC10912060 DOI: 10.1007/s40123-024-00897-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/13/2023] [Accepted: 01/23/2024] [Indexed: 02/17/2024] Open
Abstract
Corneal neuropathic pain (CNP) is a debilitating condition characterized by pain in the absence of a noxious stimulus. Symptoms such as ocular stinging, burning, photophobia, irritation, and a deep aching pain can be severe despite a seemingly normal ocular surface on examination. CNP may develop due to either peripheral or central sensitization. Peripheral sensitization develops due to aberrant regeneration of corneal nociceptors and nerve fibers as a result of corneal injury or disease of peripheral corneal nerves. Whereas, central sensitization develops due to upregulation of excitatory neurotransmitters as a result of chronic inflammation, which leads to amplification of neuronal response to stimuli. Unfortunately, due to the disparity in severity of symptomology and the observable signs on examination, patients' symptoms are commonly thought to be "psychological" or "functional", and patients report feeling ignored and neglected. Additionally, diagnosis is often delayed which adversely affects patient outcomes. Research to date has focused on the scientific aspects of corneal neuropathic pain: its pathophysiology, epidemiology, investigations, and management. Research into the patient personal experience and the challenges faced by individual patients and their clinicians is lacking. We present the patient and physician perspective on the journey of both patients in order to provide insights into the challenges faced by patients and physicians in the diagnosis, assessment, and management of corneal neuropathic pain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thomas W McNally
- Department of Ophthalmology, Royal Victoria Infirmary, Newcastle Upon Tyne Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Newcastle Upon Tyne, UK
| | - Francisco C Figueiredo
- Department of Ophthalmology, Royal Victoria Infirmary, Newcastle Upon Tyne Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Newcastle Upon Tyne, UK.
- Bioscience Institute, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Newcastle University, Newcastle Upon Tyne, UK.
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8
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Roca D, Jain S, Mun C, Akbar Sarwar M, Shorter E, Ortiz-Morales G, Tarib I, De La Cruz J. Novel Management of Ocular Surface Inflammation in Patients With Ocular Graft-Versus-Host Disease in the Setting of Cataract Surgery. Eye Contact Lens 2024; 50:189-193. [PMID: 38350098 DOI: 10.1097/icl.0000000000001076] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 12/10/2023] [Indexed: 02/15/2024]
Abstract
PURPOSE To report the outcomes of cataract surgery in patients with ocular graft-versus-host disease (oGVHD) using a novel preoperative immunomodulatory regimen in a collaborative subspecialty care setting. METHODS Retrospective case series of patients with oGVHD who underwent cataract surgery using a novel preoperative immunomodulatory regimen in a collaborative care setting. A preoperative regimen consisting of pooled human immune globulin 1%, autologous serum 50%, and methylprednisolone 1% eye drops was prescribed. Outcome measures included visual acuity (VA), ocular surface disease index (OSDI) score, lissamine green staining, and complications with a minimum of 2 years of follow-up. RESULTS Thirty-five eyes from 20 patients with oGVHD were studied. The mean age was 59 years (range 30-70 years). A healthy comparison group included 35 eyes from 24 patients with a mean age of 63 years (range 44-74 years). At the 2-year follow-up, the mean corneal staining score was 2.3/15, the mean OSDI score was 37.5, and the mean VA was 20/30 (logarithm of the minimal angle of resolution 0.17). The global complication rate was 2.8% at the last follow-up with no difference versus a healthy comparison group. CONCLUSIONS A collaborative care model improving ocular surface health before cataract surgery with dry eye and cataract subspecialists can optimize outcomes in patients with oGVHD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniela Roca
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences (D.R., S.J., C.M., M.A.S., E.S., I.T., J.D.L.C.), University of Illinois Chicago, Chicago, IL; and Tecnologico de Monterrey (G.O.-M.), School of Medicine and Health Sciences, Monterrey, Mexico
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Liu C, Lin MTY, Lee IXY, Wong JHF, Lu D, Lam TC, Zhou L, Mehta JS, Ong HS, Ang M, Tong L, Liu YC. Neuropathic Corneal Pain: Tear Proteomic and Neuromediator Profiles, Imaging Features, and Clinical Manifestations. Am J Ophthalmol 2024; 265:6-20. [PMID: 38521157 DOI: 10.1016/j.ajo.2024.03.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/28/2023] [Revised: 01/05/2024] [Accepted: 03/15/2024] [Indexed: 03/25/2024]
Abstract
PURPOSE To investigate the tear proteomic and neuromediator profiles, in vivo confocal microscopy (IVCM) imaging features, and clinical manifestations in neuropathic corneal pain (NCP) patients. DESIGN Cross-sectional study. METHODS A total of 20 NCP patients and 20 age-matched controls were recruited. All subjects were evaluated by corneal sensitivity, Schirmer test, tear break-up time, and corneal and ocular surface staining, Ocular Surface Disease Index and Ocular Pain Assessment Survey questionnaires were administered, as well as IVCM examinations for corneal nerves, microneruomas, and epithelial and dendritic cells. Tears were collected for neuromediator and proteomic analysis using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay and data-independent acquisition mass spectrometry. RESULTS Burning and sensitivity to light were the 2 most common symptoms in NCP. A total of 188 significantly dysregulated proteins, such as elevated metallothionein-2, creatine kinases B-type, vesicle-associated membrane protein 2, neurofilament light polypeptide, and myelin basic protein, were identified in the NCP patients. The top 10 dysregulated biological pathways in NCP include neurotoxicity, axonal signaling, wound healing, neutrophil degradation, apoptosis, thrombin signaling mitochondrial dysfunction, and RHOGDI and P70S6K signaling pathways. Compared to controls, the NCP cohort presented with significantly decreased corneal sensitivity (P < .001), decreased corneal nerve fiber length (P = .003), corneal nerve fiber density (P = .006), and nerve fiber fractal dimension (P = .033), as well as increased corneal nerve fiber width (P = .002), increased length, total area and perimeter of microneuromas (P < .001, P < .001, P = .019), smaller corneal epithelial size (P = .017), and higher nerve growth factor level in tears (P = .006). CONCLUSIONS These clinical manifestations, imaging features, and molecular characterizations would contribute to the diagnostics and potential therapeutic targets for NCP.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chang Liu
- From Tissue Engineering and Cell Therapy Group (C.L., M.T.-Y.L., I.X.Y.L., J.S.M., H.S.O., Y.-C.L.), Singapore Eye Research Institute, Singapore; Cornea and Refractive Surgery Group (C.L., J.S.M., H.S.O., Y.-C.L.), Singapore Eye Research Institute, Singapore
| | - Molly Tzu-Yu Lin
- From Tissue Engineering and Cell Therapy Group (C.L., M.T.-Y.L., I.X.Y.L., J.S.M., H.S.O., Y.-C.L.), Singapore Eye Research Institute, Singapore
| | - Isabelle Xin Yu Lee
- From Tissue Engineering and Cell Therapy Group (C.L., M.T.-Y.L., I.X.Y.L., J.S.M., H.S.O., Y.-C.L.), Singapore Eye Research Institute, Singapore
| | - Jipson Hon Fai Wong
- Clinical Research Platform (J.H.F.W.), Singapore Eye Research Institute, Singapore
| | - Daqian Lu
- Centre for Myopia Research (D.L., T.C.L.), School of Optometry, Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hong Kong
| | - Thomas Chuen Lam
- Centre for Myopia Research (D.L., T.C.L.), School of Optometry, Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hong Kong; Centre for Eye and Vision Research (CEVR) (T.C.L.), Hong Kong
| | - Lei Zhou
- School of Optometry (L.Z.), Department of Applied Biology and Chemical Technology, Research Centre for SHARP Vision (RCSV); The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hong Kong
| | - Jodhbir S Mehta
- From Tissue Engineering and Cell Therapy Group (C.L., M.T.-Y.L., I.X.Y.L., J.S.M., H.S.O., Y.-C.L.), Singapore Eye Research Institute, Singapore; Cornea and Refractive Surgery Group (C.L., J.S.M., H.S.O., Y.-C.L.), Singapore Eye Research Institute, Singapore; Department of Cornea and External Eye Disease (J.S.M., H.S.O., M.A., L.T., Y.-C.L.), Singapore National Eye Centre, Singapore; Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences Academic Clinical Program (J.S.M., H.S.O., M.A., Y.-C.L.), Duke-NUS Medical School, Singapore
| | - Hon Shing Ong
- From Tissue Engineering and Cell Therapy Group (C.L., M.T.-Y.L., I.X.Y.L., J.S.M., H.S.O., Y.-C.L.), Singapore Eye Research Institute, Singapore; Cornea and Refractive Surgery Group (C.L., J.S.M., H.S.O., Y.-C.L.), Singapore Eye Research Institute, Singapore; Department of Cornea and External Eye Disease (J.S.M., H.S.O., M.A., L.T., Y.-C.L.), Singapore National Eye Centre, Singapore; Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences Academic Clinical Program (J.S.M., H.S.O., M.A., Y.-C.L.), Duke-NUS Medical School, Singapore
| | - Marcus Ang
- Department of Cornea and External Eye Disease (J.S.M., H.S.O., M.A., L.T., Y.-C.L.), Singapore National Eye Centre, Singapore; Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences Academic Clinical Program (J.S.M., H.S.O., M.A., Y.-C.L.), Duke-NUS Medical School, Singapore
| | - Louis Tong
- Department of Cornea and External Eye Disease (J.S.M., H.S.O., M.A., L.T., Y.-C.L.), Singapore National Eye Centre, Singapore; Ocular Surface Research Group (L.T.), Singapore Eye Research Institute, Singapore; Eye Academic Clinical Program (L.T.), Duke-NUS Medical School, Singapore; Department of Ophthalmology (L.T.), Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore
| | - Yu-Chi Liu
- From Tissue Engineering and Cell Therapy Group (C.L., M.T.-Y.L., I.X.Y.L., J.S.M., H.S.O., Y.-C.L.), Singapore Eye Research Institute, Singapore; Cornea and Refractive Surgery Group (C.L., J.S.M., H.S.O., Y.-C.L.), Singapore Eye Research Institute, Singapore; Department of Cornea and External Eye Disease (J.S.M., H.S.O., M.A., L.T., Y.-C.L.), Singapore National Eye Centre, Singapore; Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences Academic Clinical Program (J.S.M., H.S.O., M.A., Y.-C.L.), Duke-NUS Medical School, Singapore; Department of Ophthalmology (Y.-C.L.), National Taiwan University, Taiwan.
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10
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Abazari A, Abbouda A, Cruzat A, Cavalcanti B, Pavan-Langston D, Hamrah P. Corneal reinnervation in patients with severe neurotrophic keratopathy secondary to herpes zoster ophthalmicus after treatment with autologous serum tear drops. CORNEA OPEN 2024; 3:e0029. [PMID: 39145285 PMCID: PMC11323069 DOI: 10.1097/coa.0000000000000029] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 08/16/2024]
Abstract
Purpose To study potential corneal reinnervation and recovery of corneal sensation in patients with severe neurotrophic keratopathy (NK) secondary to herpes zoster ophthalmicus (HZO) after treatment with topical autologous serum tears (AST). Method Four cases of HZO with severe NK were followed clinically and by serial laser in vivo confocal microscopy (IVCM, HRT3/RCM, Heidelberg Engineering) before and during treatment with 20% AST drops eight times a day. Two masked observers reviewed the IVCM images and assessed corneal nerve alterations. Results At baseline, all patients had complete loss of corneal sensation. In addition, IVCM showed complete lack of the subbasal corneal nerve plexus in all patients. All four patients were refractory to conventional therapies and were treated with AST drops. All patients demonstrated significant nerve regeneration by IVCM within 3-7 months of treatment. The total nerve density increased to a mean ± SEM of 10,085.88±2,542.74 μm/mm2 at the last follow up. Corneal sensation measured by Cochet-Bonnet esthesiometry improved to a mean ± SEM of 3.50±1.30 cm. Interestingly, 3 of 4 patients developed stromal keratitis with ulceration within weeks of corneal reinnervation, which was reversed by adding topical steroids. Conclusion Autologous serum tears are effective in restoring corneal subbasal nerves and sensation in patients with severe NK secondary to HZO. However, this group of patients may require concurrent topical immunomodulation and antiviral therapy while on AST to prevent stromal keratitis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Azin Abazari
- Cornea Service, New England Eye Center, Department of Ophthalmology, Tufts Medical Center, Tufts University School of Medicine, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Alessandro Abbouda
- Cornea Service, New England Eye Center, Department of Ophthalmology, Tufts Medical Center, Tufts University School of Medicine, Boston, MA, USA
- Center for Translational Ocular Immunology, Department of Ophthalmology, Tufts Medical Center, Tufts University School of Medicine, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Andrea Cruzat
- Cornea Service & Ocular Surface Imaging Center, Massachusetts Eye and Ear Infirmary, Department of Ophthalmology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA
| | - Bernardo Cavalcanti
- Cornea Service & Ocular Surface Imaging Center, Massachusetts Eye and Ear Infirmary, Department of Ophthalmology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA
| | - Deborah Pavan-Langston
- Cornea Service & Ocular Surface Imaging Center, Massachusetts Eye and Ear Infirmary, Department of Ophthalmology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA
| | - Pedram Hamrah
- Cornea Service, New England Eye Center, Department of Ophthalmology, Tufts Medical Center, Tufts University School of Medicine, Boston, MA, USA
- Center for Translational Ocular Immunology, Department of Ophthalmology, Tufts Medical Center, Tufts University School of Medicine, Boston, MA, USA
- Cornea Service & Ocular Surface Imaging Center, Massachusetts Eye and Ear Infirmary, Department of Ophthalmology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA
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11
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Wong NSQ, Liu C, Lin MTY, Lee IXY, Tong L, Liu YC. Neuropathic Corneal Pain after Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) Infection. Diseases 2024; 12:37. [PMID: 38391784 PMCID: PMC10887979 DOI: 10.3390/diseases12020037] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/13/2024] [Revised: 02/01/2024] [Accepted: 02/05/2024] [Indexed: 02/24/2024] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION This is a case report of a patient with neuropathic corneal pain after coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) infection. METHODS A previously healthy 27-year-old female presented with bilateral eye pain accompanied by increased light sensitivity 5 months after COVID-19 infection. She was diagnosed with neuropathic corneal pain based on clear corneas without fluorescein staining, alongside the presence of microneuromas, dendritic cells, and activated stromal keratocytes identified bilaterally on in vivo confocal microscopy. RESULTS The patient's tear nerve growth factor, substance P, and calcitonin gene-related peptide levels were 5.9 pg/mL, 2978.7 pg/mL, and 1.1 ng/mL, respectively, for the right eye and 23.1 pg/mL, 4798.7 pg/mL, and 1.2 ng/mL, respectively, for the left eye, suggesting corneal neuroinflammatory status. After 6 weeks of topical 0.1% flurometholone treatment, decreased microneuroma size, less extensive dendritic cells, and reduced tear nerve growth factor and substance P levels were observed. The scores on the Ocular Pain Assessment Survey showed an improvement in burning sensation and light sensitivity, decreasing from 80% and 70% to 50% for both. CONCLUSIONS Neuropathic corneal pain is a potential post-COVID-19 complication that warrants ophthalmologists' and neurologists' attention.
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Affiliation(s)
- Natalie Shi Qi Wong
- Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore 117597, Singapore
| | - Chang Liu
- Singapore Eye Research Institute, Singapore 169856, Singapore
| | | | | | - Louis Tong
- Singapore Eye Research Institute, Singapore 169856, Singapore
- Department of Cornea and External Eye Disease, Singapore National Eye Centre, Singapore 168751, Singapore
- Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences Academic Clinical Program, Duke-NUS Medical School, Singapore 169857, Singapore
| | - Yu-Chi Liu
- Singapore Eye Research Institute, Singapore 169856, Singapore
- Department of Cornea and External Eye Disease, Singapore National Eye Centre, Singapore 168751, Singapore
- Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences Academic Clinical Program, Duke-NUS Medical School, Singapore 169857, Singapore
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12
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Asiedu K. Neurophysiology of corneal neuropathic pain and emerging pharmacotherapeutics. J Neurosci Res 2024; 102:e25285. [PMID: 38284865 DOI: 10.1002/jnr.25285] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/09/2023] [Revised: 11/12/2023] [Accepted: 12/02/2023] [Indexed: 01/30/2024]
Abstract
The altered activity generated by corneal neuronal injury can result in morphological and physiological changes in the architecture of synaptic connections in the nervous system. These changes can alter the sensitivity of neurons (both second-order and higher-order projection) projecting pain signals. A complex process involving different cell types, molecules, nerves, dendritic cells, neurokines, neuropeptides, and axon guidance molecules causes a high level of sensory rearrangement, which is germane to all the phases in the pathomechanism of corneal neuropathic pain. Immune cells migrating to the region of nerve injury assist in pain generation by secreting neurokines that ensure nerve depolarization. Furthermore, excitability in the central pain pathway is perpetuated by local activation of microglia in the trigeminal ganglion and alterations of the descending inhibitory modulation for corneal pain arriving from central nervous system. Corneal neuropathic pain may be facilitated by dysfunctional structures in the central somatosensory nervous system due to a lesion, altered synaptogenesis, or genetic abnormality. Understanding these important pathways will provide novel therapeutic insight.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kofi Asiedu
- School of Optometry & Vision Science, University of New South Wales, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
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13
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Toh CJL, Liu C, Lee IXY, Lin MTY, Tong L, Liu YC. Clinical associations of corneal neuromas with ocular surface diseases. Neural Regen Res 2024; 19:140-147. [PMID: 37488855 PMCID: PMC10479835 DOI: 10.4103/1673-5374.375308] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/30/2023] [Revised: 04/04/2023] [Accepted: 04/06/2023] [Indexed: 07/26/2023] Open
Abstract
Corneal neuromas, also termed microneuromas, refer to microscopic, irregularly-shaped enlargements of terminal subbasal nerve endings at sites of nerve damage or injury. The formation of corneal neuromas results from damage to corneal nerves, such as following corneal pathology or corneal or intraocular surgeries. Initially, denervated areas of sensory nerve fibers become invaded by sprouts of intact sensory nerve fibers, and later injured axons regenerate and new sprouts called neuromas develop. In recent years, analysis of corneal nerve abnormalities including corneal neuromas which can be identified using in vivo confocal microscopy, a non-invasive imaging technique with microscopic resolution, has been used to evaluate corneal neuropathy and ocular surface dysfunction. Corneal neuromas have been shown to be associated with clinical symptoms of discomfort and dryness of eyes, and are a promising surrogate biomarker for ocular surface diseases, such as neuropathic corneal pain, dry eye disease, diabetic corneal neuropathy, neurotrophic keratopathy, Sjögren's syndrome, bullous keratopathy, post-refractive surgery, and others. In this review, we have summarized the current literature on the association between these ocular surface diseases and the presentation of corneal microneuromas, as well as elaborated on their pathogenesis, visualization via in vivo confocal microscopy, and utility in monitoring treatment efficacy. As current quantitative analysis on neuromas mainly relies on manual annotation and quantification, which is user-dependent and labor-intensive, future direction includes the development of artificial intelligence software to identify and quantify these potential imaging biomarkers in a more automated and sensitive manner, allowing it to be applied in clinical settings more efficiently. Combining imaging and molecular biomarkers may also help elucidate the associations between corneal neuromas and ocular surface diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Chang Liu
- Singapore Eye Research Institute, Singapore
| | | | | | - Louis Tong
- Singapore Eye Research Institute, Singapore
- Department of Cornea and External Eye Disease, Singapore National Eye Centre, Singapore
- Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences Academic Clinical Program, Duke-NUS Medical School, Singapore
| | - Yu-Chi Liu
- Singapore Eye Research Institute, Singapore
- Department of Cornea and External Eye Disease, Singapore National Eye Centre, Singapore
- Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences Academic Clinical Program, Duke-NUS Medical School, Singapore
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14
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Chi J, Lu M, Wang S, Xu T, Ju R, Liu C, Zhang Z, Jiang Z, Han B. Injectable hydrogels derived from marine polysaccharides as cell carriers for large corneal epithelial defects. Int J Biol Macromol 2023; 253:127084. [PMID: 37769782 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijbiomac.2023.127084] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/27/2022] [Revised: 09/12/2023] [Accepted: 09/23/2023] [Indexed: 10/03/2023]
Abstract
Injectable hydrogels have been employed for sutureless repair of corneal epithelial defects, which can perfectly fit the defect sites and minimize the associated discomfort. However, numerous hydrogels are ineffective in treating large corneal epithelial defects and still suffer from poor biocompatibility or weak applicability when used as cell carriers. Herein, hydroxypropyl chitin/carboxymethyl chitosan (HPCT/CMCS) temperature-sensitive hydrogels are fabricated, and their physicochemical properties and suitability for corneal epithelial repair are investigated. The results demonstrate that HPCT/CMCS hydrogels have excellent temperature sensitivity between 20 and 25 °C and a transparency of over 80 %. Besides, HPCT/CMCS hydrogels can promote cell proliferation and facilitate cell migration of primary rabbit corneal epithelial cells (CEpCs). A rabbit large corneal epithelial defect model (6 mm) is established, and CEpCs are transplanted into defect sites by HPCT/CMCS hydrogels. The results suggest that HPCT/CMCS/CEpCs significantly enhance the repair of large corneal epithelial defects with a healing rate of 99.6 % on day 8, while reducing inflammatory responses and scarring formation. Furthermore, HPCT/CMCS/CEpCs can contribute to the reconstruction of damaged tissues and the recovery of functional capacities. Overall, HPCT/CMCS hydrogels may be a feasible corneal cell carrier material and can provide an alternative approach to large corneal epithelial defects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jinhua Chi
- Laboratory of Biochemistry and Biomedical Materials, College of Marine Life Sciences, Ocean University of China, Qingdao 266003, PR China
| | - Minxin Lu
- Laboratory of Biochemistry and Biomedical Materials, College of Marine Life Sciences, Ocean University of China, Qingdao 266003, PR China
| | - Shuo Wang
- Laboratory of Biochemistry and Biomedical Materials, College of Marine Life Sciences, Ocean University of China, Qingdao 266003, PR China
| | - Tianjiao Xu
- Laboratory of Biochemistry and Biomedical Materials, College of Marine Life Sciences, Ocean University of China, Qingdao 266003, PR China
| | - Ruibao Ju
- Laboratory of Biochemistry and Biomedical Materials, College of Marine Life Sciences, Ocean University of China, Qingdao 266003, PR China
| | - Chenqi Liu
- Laboratory of Biochemistry and Biomedical Materials, College of Marine Life Sciences, Ocean University of China, Qingdao 266003, PR China
| | - Zhenguo Zhang
- Laboratory of Biochemistry and Biomedical Materials, College of Marine Life Sciences, Ocean University of China, Qingdao 266003, PR China
| | - Zhen Jiang
- Laboratory of Biochemistry and Biomedical Materials, College of Marine Life Sciences, Ocean University of China, Qingdao 266003, PR China
| | - Baoqin Han
- Laboratory of Biochemistry and Biomedical Materials, College of Marine Life Sciences, Ocean University of China, Qingdao 266003, PR China; Laboratory for Marine Drugs and Bioproducts of Qingdao National Laboratory for Marine Science and Technology, Qingdao 266235, PR China.
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15
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Lafreniere JD, Szczesniak AM, Courtney E, Kelly MEM, Faktorovich EG. Topical analgesics for acute corneal pain: current options and emerging therapeutics. J Cataract Refract Surg 2023; 49:1160-1167. [PMID: 37232414 DOI: 10.1097/j.jcrs.0000000000001225] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/14/2022] [Accepted: 05/18/2023] [Indexed: 05/27/2023]
Abstract
Acute corneal pain is a common complaint that causes significant distress to patients and continues to challenge therapeutic avenues for pain management. Current topical treatment options have marked limitations in terms of both efficacy and safety, thus often prompting the adjunctive use of systemic analgesics, including opioids. In general, there have not been extensive advancements in pharmacologic options for the management of corneal pain over the past several decades. Despite this, multiple promising therapeutic avenues exist which hold the potential to transform the ocular pain landscape, including druggable targets within the endocannabinoid system. This review will summarize the current evidence base for topical nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, anticholinergic agents, and anesthetics before focusing on several potential avenues in the setting of acute corneal pain management, including autologous tear serum, topical opioids and endocannabinoid system modulators.
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Affiliation(s)
- J Daniel Lafreniere
- From the Department of Pharmacology, Dalhousie University, Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada (Lafreniere, Szczesniak, Courtney, Kelly); Department of Ophthalmology & Visual Sciences, Dalhousie University, Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada (Kelly); Department of Anesthesia, Pain Management & Perioperative Medicine, Dalhousie University, Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada (Kelly); Pacific Vision Institute, San Francisco, California (Faktorovich)
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16
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Balbuena-Pareja A, Bogen CS, Cox SM, Hamrah P. Effect of recombinant human nerve growth factor treatment on corneal nerve regeneration in patients with neurotrophic keratopathy. Front Neurosci 2023; 17:1210179. [PMID: 37965220 PMCID: PMC10642242 DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2023.1210179] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/21/2023] [Accepted: 10/10/2023] [Indexed: 11/16/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction Neurotrophic Keratopathy (NK) is a neurodegenerative corneal disease that results in diminished corneal sensation. Previous studies have found that Cenegermin 0.002%, a recombinant human nerve growth factor (rhNGF), improves corneal epithelial healing in stage 2 and 3 NK patients. However, rhNGF effect on corneal sensation and nerve regeneration has not been well established. Thus, this study aims to analyze the effect of rhNGF on corneal nerve regeneration using in vivo confocal microscopy (IVCM) and on corneal sensitivity in NK patients. Methods This is a retrospective, longitudinal, case-control study that included patients with NK, treated with rhNGF for at least 4 weeks, with pre- and post-treatment IVCM images available for analysis. Chart reviews were conducted documenting prior medical and surgical history, clinical signs and symptoms, and corneal sensation using Cochet-Bonnet esthesiometry. Corneal nerve parameters were assessed by IVCM. Sex- and age-matched reference controls were selected from a database of healthy subjects for comparison. Results The study included 25 patients, with 22 (88%) stage 1, two (8%) stage 2, and 1 (4%) stage 3 NK patients, with a median age of 64 years (range: 30-93 years). Total, main, and branch nerve densities [median (range) in mm/mm2] were lower in the NK group pre-treatment [2.3 (0.0-21.1); 1.7 (0.0-13.0); 0.5 (0.0-10.2); respectively] vs. controls [22.3 (14.9-29.0); 10.1 (3.2-15.4); and 12.1 (6.2-18.4), (p < 0.0001 for all), respectively]. Post-treatment nerve densities increased compared to pre-treatment to 5.3 (0.0-19.4, p = 0.0083) for total, 3.5 (0.0-13.2, p = 0.0059) for main, and 2.0 (0.0-10.4, p = 0.0251) for branch nerves, but remained lower than controls (p < 0.0001 for all). Corneal sensation increased from 2.3 ± 1.1 cm pre-treatment to 4.1 ± 1.4 cm post-treatment (p = 0.001). Median best corrected visual acuity significantly increased following rhNGF treatment from 0.4 (0.0-1.6) to 0.12 (-0.1 to 1.6) (p = 0.007). Conclusion Patients with NK treated with at least 4 weeks of rhNGF, showed a significant increase in corneal nerve densities after treatment. A significant increase in corneal sensation, as well as best corrected visual acuity, was observed following treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ana Balbuena-Pareja
- Center for Translational Ocular Immunology, Department of Ophthalmology, Tufts Medical Center, Tufts University School of Medicine, Boston, MA, United States
| | - Chloe S. Bogen
- Center for Translational Ocular Immunology, Department of Ophthalmology, Tufts Medical Center, Tufts University School of Medicine, Boston, MA, United States
| | - Stephanie M. Cox
- Center for Translational Ocular Immunology, Department of Ophthalmology, Tufts Medical Center, Tufts University School of Medicine, Boston, MA, United States
| | - Pedram Hamrah
- Center for Translational Ocular Immunology, Department of Ophthalmology, Tufts Medical Center, Tufts University School of Medicine, Boston, MA, United States
- Cornea Service, New England Eye Center, Tufts Medical Center, Boston, MA, United States
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17
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Sierra-Silvestre E, Andrade RJ, Colorado LH, Edwards K, Coppieters MW. Occurrence of corneal sub-epithelial microneuromas and axonal swelling in people with diabetes with and without (painful) diabetic neuropathy. Diabetologia 2023; 66:1719-1734. [PMID: 37301795 PMCID: PMC10257488 DOI: 10.1007/s00125-023-05945-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/28/2022] [Accepted: 04/04/2023] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
AIMS/HYPOTHESIS Non-invasive in vivo corneal confocal microscopy is gaining ground as an alternative to skin punch biopsy to evaluate small-diameter nerve fibre characteristics. This study aimed to further explore corneal nerve fibre pathology in diabetic neuropathy. METHODS This cross-sectional study quantified and compared corneal nerve morphology and microneuromas in participants without diabetes (n=27), participants with diabetes but without distal symmetrical polyneuropathy (DSPN; n=33), participants with non-painful DSPN (n=25) and participants with painful DSPN (n=18). Clinical and electrodiagnostic criteria were used to diagnose DSPN. ANCOVA was used to compare nerve fibre morphology in the central cornea and inferior whorl, and the number of corneal sub-epithelial microneuromas between groups. Fisher's exact tests were used to compare the type and presence of corneal sub-epithelial microneuromas and axonal swelling between groups. RESULTS Various corneal nerve morphology metrics, such as corneal nerve fibre length and density, showed a progressive decline across the groups (p<0.001). In addition, axonal swelling was present more frequently (p=0.018) and in higher numbers (p=0.03) in participants with painful compared with non-painful DSPN. The frequency of axonal distension, a type of microneuroma, was increased in participants with painful and non-painful DSPN compared to participants with diabetes but without DSPN and participants without diabetes (all p≤0.042). The combined presence of all microneuromas and axonal swelling was increased in participants with painful DSPN compared with all other groups (p≤0.026). CONCLUSIONS/INTERPRETATION Microneuromas and axonal swelling in the cornea increase in prevalence from participants with diabetes to participants with non-painful DSPN and participants with painful DSPN.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eva Sierra-Silvestre
- Menzies Health Institute Queensland, Griffith University, Brisbane, QLD, Australia
- School of Health Sciences and Social Work, Griffith University, Brisbane, QLD, Australia
- Amsterdam Movement Sciences - Musculoskeletal Health Program, Faculty of Behavioural and Movement Sciences, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Ricardo J Andrade
- Menzies Health Institute Queensland, Griffith University, Brisbane, QLD, Australia
- Movement - Interactions - Performance (MIP), Nantes University, Nantes, France
| | - Luisa H Colorado
- Centre for Vision and Eye Research, School of Optometry and Vision Science, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, Australia
| | - Katie Edwards
- Centre for Vision and Eye Research, School of Optometry and Vision Science, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, Australia
| | - Michel W Coppieters
- Menzies Health Institute Queensland, Griffith University, Brisbane, QLD, Australia.
- School of Health Sciences and Social Work, Griffith University, Brisbane, QLD, Australia.
- Amsterdam Movement Sciences - Musculoskeletal Health Program, Faculty of Behavioural and Movement Sciences, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam, the Netherlands.
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18
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Wu M, Chinnery HR, De Silva MEH, Downie LE. Characterisation and clustering of corneal stromal-epithelial nerve penetration sites in healthy adults: A laser-scanning in vivo confocal microscopy study. Clin Exp Ophthalmol 2023; 51:746-749. [PMID: 37463834 DOI: 10.1111/ceo.14276] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/26/2023] [Accepted: 07/02/2023] [Indexed: 07/20/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Mengliang Wu
- Department of Optometry and Vision Sciences, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
| | - Holly R Chinnery
- Department of Optometry and Vision Sciences, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
| | - Manikkuwadura E H De Silva
- Department of Optometry and Vision Sciences, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
| | - Laura E Downie
- Department of Optometry and Vision Sciences, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
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19
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Gomes JAP, Azar DT, Baudouin C, Bitton E, Chen W, Hafezi F, Hamrah P, Hogg RE, Horwath-Winter J, Kontadakis GA, Mehta JS, Messmer EM, Perez VL, Zadok D, Willcox MDP. TFOS Lifestyle: Impact of elective medications and procedures on the ocular surface. Ocul Surf 2023; 29:331-385. [PMID: 37087043 DOI: 10.1016/j.jtos.2023.04.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/07/2023] [Accepted: 04/10/2023] [Indexed: 04/24/2023]
Abstract
The word "elective" refers to medications and procedures undertaken by choice or with a lower grade of prioritization. Patients usually use elective medications or undergo elective procedures to treat pathologic conditions or for cosmetic enhancement, impacting their lifestyle positively and, thus, improving their quality of life. However, those interventions can affect the homeostasis of the tear film and ocular surface. Consequently, they generate signs and symptoms that could impair the patient's quality of life. This report describes the impact of elective topical and systemic medications and procedures on the ocular surface and the underlying mechanisms. Moreover, elective procedures performed for ocular diseases, cosmetic enhancement, and non-ophthalmic interventions, such as radiotherapy and bariatric surgery, are discussed. The report also evaluates significant anatomical and biological consequences of non-urgent interventions to the ocular surface, such as neuropathic and neurotrophic keratopathies. Besides that, it provides an overview of the prophylaxis and management of pathological conditions resulting from the studied interventions and suggests areas for future research. The report also contains a systematic review investigating the quality of life among people who have undergone small incision lenticule extraction (SMILE). Overall, SMILE refractive surgery seems to cause more vision disturbances than LASIK in the first month post-surgery, but less dry eye symptoms in long-term follow up.
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Affiliation(s)
- José Alvaro P Gomes
- Dept. of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, Federal University of Sao Paulo/Paulista School of Medicine (UNIFESP/EPM), Sao Paulo, SP, Brazil.
| | - Dimitri T Azar
- University of Illinois College of Medicine, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Christophe Baudouin
- Quinze-Vingts National Eye Hospital & Vision Institute, IHU FOReSIGHT, Paris, France
| | - Etty Bitton
- Ecole d'optométrie, Université de Montréal, Montréal, Canada
| | - Wei Chen
- Eye Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | | | - Pedram Hamrah
- Department of Ophthalmology, Tufts Medical Center, Tufts University School of Medicine, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Ruth E Hogg
- Centre for Public Health, School of Medicine, Dentistry and Biomedical Sciences, Belfast, UK
| | | | | | | | | | - Victor L Perez
- Foster Center for Ocular Immunology, Duke University Eye Center, Durham, NC, USA
| | - David Zadok
- Shaare Zedek Medical Center, Affiliated to the Hebrew University, School of Medicine, Jerusalem, Israel
| | - Mark D P Willcox
- School of Optometry and Vision Science, University of New South Wales, Sydney, Australia
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20
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Mangwani-Mordani S, Goodman CF, Galor A. Novel Treatments for Chronic Ocular Surface Pain. Cornea 2023; 42:261-271. [PMID: 36729473 PMCID: PMC9918665 DOI: 10.1097/ico.0000000000003193] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/03/2022] [Accepted: 09/28/2022] [Indexed: 02/03/2023]
Abstract
ABSTRACT Several etiologies can contribute to ocular surface pain including nociceptive, peripheral neuropathic, and central neuropathic mechanisms. Clinical clues can help identify contributors to ocular surface pain in a patient. In individuals whose pain persists despite targeting nociceptive contributors, neuropathic mechanisms should be considered and addressed using oral, topical, and/or adjuvant agents.
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Affiliation(s)
- Simran Mangwani-Mordani
- Surgical Services, Miami Veterans Affairs Medical Center, 1201 NW 17 Street, Miami, FL, 33125, USA
- Bascom Palmer Eye Institute, Department of Ophthalmology, University of Miami, 900 NW 17 Street, Miami, FL 33136, USA
| | - Courtney F. Goodman
- Bascom Palmer Eye Institute, Department of Ophthalmology, University of Miami, 900 NW 17 Street, Miami, FL 33136, USA
| | - Anat Galor
- Surgical Services, Miami Veterans Affairs Medical Center, 1201 NW 17 Street, Miami, FL, 33125, USA
- Bascom Palmer Eye Institute, Department of Ophthalmology, University of Miami, 900 NW 17 Street, Miami, FL 33136, USA
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21
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Wang M, Yennam S, Pflugfelder S. Initial experiences using plasma rich in growth factors to treat keratoneuralgia. Front Med (Lausanne) 2022; 9:946828. [PMID: 36091697 PMCID: PMC9448984 DOI: 10.3389/fmed.2022.946828] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/18/2022] [Accepted: 08/01/2022] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Keratoneuralgia, a clinical diagnosis of sensitized corneal pain without visible ocular surface damage, generally has minimal response to conventional therapies. Causes include refractive surgery and chronic dry eye. We evaluated the efficacy of Plasma Rich in Growth Factors (PRGF), a novel treatment prepared using a commercially available kit, in patients with keratoneuralgia. A retrospective chart review identified patients who had the clinical diagnosis of keratoneuralgia and were treated with PRGF for at least 3 months from October 2015 to April 2020 at a single academic institution. Both objective eye exam findings and concurrent treatments were obtained at baseline, 3 months, and final visit (if available). A questionnaire was administered to identified patients, including symptoms scores measured with a visual analog scale. The results of this survey and other objective findings were compared before and after PRGF treatment. 16 out of 32 patients (50%) with a mean follow-up period of 33 ± 26 months answered the questionnaire. Refractive surgeries were the cause of keratoneuralgia in 14 patients (87.5%), with LASIK the most common procedure (11 patients, 69%). There were no adverse events recorded or reported. Symptom scored by VAS in a modified Symptoms Assessment in Dry Eye questionnaire significantly decreased after PRGF use (85 ± 16 to 45 ± 33, p = 0.0002). Ten patients (63%) reported PRGF is superior to other therapy and would recommend to others. There were no significant trends in visual acuity, objective exam findings, or concurrent treatments after PRGF treatment. PRGF is safe and can potentially alleviate symptoms in patients with keratoneuralgia, a rare but devastating complication after refractive surgery. Prospective trial is indicated to explore PRGF as a potentially useful treatment for keratoneuralgia.
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22
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Galor A, Hamrah P, Haque S, Attal N, Labetoulle M. Understanding chronic ocular surface pain: An unmet need for targeted drug therapy. Ocul Surf 2022; 26:148-156. [PMID: 35970433 DOI: 10.1016/j.jtos.2022.08.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/02/2022] [Revised: 07/29/2022] [Accepted: 08/09/2022] [Indexed: 10/15/2022]
Abstract
Chronic ocular surface pain (COSP) may be defined as a feeling of pain, perceived as originating from the ocular surface, that persists for >3 months. COSP is a complex multifactorial condition associated with several risk factors that may significantly interfere with an individual's daily activities, resulting in poor quality of life (QoL). COSP is also likely to have a high burden on patients with substantial implications on global healthcare costs. While patients may use varied terminology to describe symptoms of COSP, any ocular surface damage in the ocular sensory apparatus (nociceptive, neuropathic, inflammatory, or combination thereof) resulting in low tear production, chronic inflammation, or nerve abnormalities (functional and/or morphological), is typically associated with COSP. Considering the heterogeneity of this condition, it is highly recommended that advanced multimodal diagnostic tools are utilized to help discern the nociceptive and neuropathic pain pathways in order to provide targeted treatment and effective clinical management. The current article provides an overview of COSP, including its multifactorial pathophysiology, etiology, prevalence, clinical presentation, impact on QoL, diagnosis, current management, and unmet medical needs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anat Galor
- Surgical Services, Miami Veterans Affairs Medical Centre and Bascom Palmer Eye Institute, University of Miami, Miami, FL, USA
| | - Pedram Hamrah
- Tufts Medical Centre, New England Eye Center, 260 Tremont Street Biewend Building, Boston, MA, USA
| | | | - Nadine Attal
- CHU Paris IdF Ouest - Hôpital Ambroise Paré, 9 avenue Charles de Gaulle, 92100, Boulogne-Billancourt, INSERM U 987 and Université Paris Saclay, France
| | - Marc Labetoulle
- Service d'Ophtalmologie, hôpital Bicêtre, AP-HP, Université Paris Saclay, 94275, Le Kremlin-Bicêtre, France; IMVA-HB/IDMI, CEA, Inserm U1184, 92265, Fontenay-aux-Roses, France.
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23
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Patel S, Mittal R, Sarantopoulos KD, Galor A. Neuropathic ocular surface pain: Emerging drug targets and therapeutic implications. Expert Opin Ther Targets 2022; 26:681-695. [PMID: 36069761 PMCID: PMC9613591 DOI: 10.1080/14728222.2022.2122438] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/18/2021] [Accepted: 09/05/2022] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Dysfunction at various levels of the somatosensory system can lead to ocular surface pain with a neuropathic component. Compared to nociceptive pain (due to noxious stimuli at the ocular surface), neuropathic pain tends to be chronic and refractory to therapies, making it an important source of morbidity in the population. An understanding of the options available for neuropathic ocular surface pain, including new and emerging therapies, is thus an important topic. AREAS COVERED This review will examine studies focusing on ocular surface pain, emphasizing those examining patients with a neuropathic component. Attention will be placed toward recent (after 2017) studies that have examined new and emerging therapies for neuropathic ocular surface pain. EXPERT OPINION Several therapies have been studied thus far, and continued research is needed to identify which individuals would benefit from specific therapies. Gaps in our understanding exist, especially with availability of in-clinic diagnostics for neuropathic pain. A focus on improving diagnostic capabilities and researching gene-modulating therapies could help us to provide more specific mechanism-based therapies for patients. In the meantime, continuing to uncover new modalities and examining which are likely to work depending on pain phenotype remains an important short-term goal.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sneh Patel
- University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL, USA
- Bascom Palmer Eye Institute, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL, USA
| | - Rhiya Mittal
- University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL, USA
- Bascom Palmer Eye Institute, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL, USA
| | - Konstantinos D. Sarantopoulos
- Department of Anesthesiology, Perioperative Medicine, and Pain Management, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL, 33136, USA
| | - Anat Galor
- University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL, USA
- Bascom Palmer Eye Institute, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL, USA
- Surgical services, Miami Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Miami, FL, USA
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Luzu J, Antoine L, Annabelle RLG, Ghislaine R, Hong L, Bénédicte D, Benjamin B, Damien S, Christophe B. In vivo confocal microscopic study of corneal innervation in Sjögren's Syndrome with or without small fiber neuropathy. Ocul Surf 2022; 25:155-162. [PMID: 35872076 DOI: 10.1016/j.jtos.2022.07.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/19/2021] [Revised: 07/14/2022] [Accepted: 07/18/2022] [Indexed: 10/17/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE To study changes in the subbasal nerve plexus by In vivo confocal microscopy (IVCM) in Sjögren's Syndrome (SS) with or without associated Small Fiber Neuropathy (SFN), in order to prevent diagnostic delay. METHODS Seventy-one patients with SS, including 19 with associated SFN, 20 healthy volunteers and 20 patients with Meibomian gland dysfunction (MGD) were included in this retrospective case-control study. IVCM was used to investigate subbasal nerve plexus density and morphology. RESULTS Corneal sensitivity as evaluated with the Cochet-Bonnet aesthesiometer was significantly reduced in the SS group versus the control group (P = 0.026) and the MGD group (P = 0.037). The number of inflammatory cells was significantly increased in the SS group to 86.2 ± 82.1 cells/mm2 compared to the control group (P < 0.001). The density of the subbasal nerve plexus was significantly reduced to 16.7 ± 6.5 mm/mm2 in the SS group compared to the control group (P < 0.005) and the MGD group (P = 0.042). The tortuosity of the nerves in the SS group was significantly increased compared to the control group (P < 0.001) and the MGD group (P = 0.025). The average number of subbasal nerve plexus neuromas was significantly increased in the SS group compared to the control group (P = 0.001), with a significant increase in the average number of neuromas in SS patients with associated SFN compared to SS patients without SFN (P = 0.008). CONCLUSION IVCM can be useful to detect corneal nerve changes in SS patients and may allow earlier diagnosis of the disease and to consider new therapeutic approaches.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jade Luzu
- Department of Ophthalmology III, CHNO des Quinze-Vingts, IHU FOReSIGHT, 28 rue de Charenton, F-75012, Paris, France.
| | - Labbé Antoine
- Department of Ophthalmology III, CHNO des Quinze-Vingts, IHU FOReSIGHT, 28 rue de Charenton, F-75012, Paris, France; Sorbonne Université, INSERM, CNRS, Institut de la Vision, IHU FOReSIGHT, 17 rue Moreau, F-75012, Paris, France
| | - Réaux-Le Goazigo Annabelle
- Sorbonne Université, INSERM, CNRS, Institut de la Vision, IHU FOReSIGHT, 17 rue Moreau, F-75012, Paris, France
| | - Rabut Ghislaine
- Department of Ophthalmology III, CHNO des Quinze-Vingts, IHU FOReSIGHT, 28 rue de Charenton, F-75012, Paris, France
| | - Liang Hong
- Department of Ophthalmology III, CHNO des Quinze-Vingts, IHU FOReSIGHT, 28 rue de Charenton, F-75012, Paris, France; Sorbonne Université, INSERM, CNRS, Institut de la Vision, IHU FOReSIGHT, 17 rue Moreau, F-75012, Paris, France
| | - Dupas Bénédicte
- Department of Ophthalmology III, CHNO des Quinze-Vingts, IHU FOReSIGHT, 28 rue de Charenton, F-75012, Paris, France
| | - Blautain Benjamin
- Department of Ophthalmology III, CHNO des Quinze-Vingts, IHU FOReSIGHT, 28 rue de Charenton, F-75012, Paris, France
| | - Sène Damien
- Departement of Internal Medecine, Lariboisière Hospital, 2 rue Ambroise Paré, F-75010, Paris, France
| | - Baudouin Christophe
- Department of Ophthalmology III, CHNO des Quinze-Vingts, IHU FOReSIGHT, 28 rue de Charenton, F-75012, Paris, France; Sorbonne Université, INSERM, CNRS, Institut de la Vision, IHU FOReSIGHT, 17 rue Moreau, F-75012, Paris, France
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25
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Neuroimmune crosstalk in the cornea: The role of immune cells in corneal nerve maintenance during homeostasis and inflammation. Prog Retin Eye Res 2022; 91:101105. [PMID: 35868985 DOI: 10.1016/j.preteyeres.2022.101105] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/08/2022] [Revised: 07/01/2022] [Accepted: 07/04/2022] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
In the cornea, resident immune cells are in close proximity to sensory nerves, consistent with their important roles in the maintenance of nerves in both homeostasis and inflammation. Using in vivo confocal microscopy in humans, and ex vivo immunostaining and fluorescent reporter mice to visualize corneal sensory nerves and immune cells, remarkable progress has been made to advance our understanding of the physical and functional interactions between corneal nerves and immune cells. In this review, we summarize and discuss recent studies relating to corneal immune cells and sensory nerves, and their interactions in health and disease. In particular, we consider how disrupted corneal nerve axons can induce immune cell activity, including in dendritic cells, macrophages and other infiltrating cells, directly and/or indirectly by releasing neuropeptides such as substance P and calcitonin gene-related peptide. We summarize growing evidence that the role of corneal intraepithelial immune cells is likely different in corneal wound healing versus other inflammatory-dominated conditions. The role of different types of macrophages is also discussed, including how stromal macrophages with anti-inflammatory phenotypes communicate with corneal nerves to provide neuroprotection, while macrophages with pro-inflammatory phenotypes, along with other infiltrating cells including neutrophils and CD4+ T cells, can be inhibitory to corneal re-innervation. Finally, this review considers the bidirectional interactions between corneal immune cells and corneal nerves, and how leveraging this interaction could represent a potential therapeutic approach for corneal neuropathy.
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26
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Dermer H, Hwang J, Mittal R, Cohen AK, Galor A. Corneal sub-basal nerve plexus microneuromas in individuals with and without dry eye. Br J Ophthalmol 2022; 106:616-622. [PMID: 33397656 PMCID: PMC8254821 DOI: 10.1136/bjophthalmol-2020-317891] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/03/2020] [Revised: 11/12/2020] [Accepted: 12/12/2020] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND/AIM An objective marker is needed to detect when corneal nerve abnormalities underlie neuropathic corneal pain (NCP), as symptoms often overlap with those of dry eye (DE). This study evaluated microneuroma (MN) frequency in various populations and investigated relationships between MN presence and DE clinical features in individuals with DE symptoms but without a history of refractive surgery, in order to eliminate refractive surgery as a potential confounder of nerve abnormalities. METHODS This was a retrospective study that included individuals with and without DE symptoms who underwent a clinical evaluation for DE (symptom surveys and ocular surface evaluation) and in vivo confocal microscopy imaging. DE clinical features (including those suggestive of neuropathic pain) were compared based on MN presence using t-tests, χ2 analyses and Pearson's correlation coefficients with 0.05 alpha level. RESULTS MN frequencies did not significantly differ between individuals with DE symptoms (Dry Eye Questionnaire 5 score ≥6) and a history of refractive surgery (n=1/16, 6%), individuals with DE symptoms without a history of refractive surgery (n=26/119, 22%) and individuals without DE symptoms (n=2/18, 11%, p=0.22). Among individuals with DE symptoms without a history of refractive surgery, DE clinical features, including those indicative of NCP (burning sensation and sensitivity to light, wind and extreme temperatures), did not significantly differ based on MN presence (p>0.05). CONCLUSION MN frequencies did not significantly differ between individuals with and without DE symptoms. Their presence alone could not distinguish between DE subtypes, including features of NCP in our study population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Harrison Dermer
- Miller School of Medicine, University of Miami, Miami, Florida, USA
| | - Jodi Hwang
- Miller School of Medicine, University of Miami, Miami, Florida, USA
| | - Rhiya Mittal
- Miller School of Medicine, University of Miami, Miami, Florida, USA
| | - Adam K Cohen
- Ophthalmology, Bruce W Carter Department of Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Miami, Florida, USA
| | - Anat Galor
- Ophthalmology, Bruce W Carter Department of Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Miami, Florida, USA
- Ophthalmology, University of Miami Health System Bascom Palmer Eye Institute, Miami, Florida, USA
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27
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Nortey J, Smith D, Seitzman GD, Gonzales JA. Topical Therapeutic Options in Corneal Neuropathic Pain. Front Pharmacol 2022; 12:769909. [PMID: 35173607 PMCID: PMC8841414 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2021.769909] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/02/2021] [Accepted: 12/28/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Purpose of Review: Corneal neuropathic pain can be difficult to treat, particularly due to its lack of response to standard dry eye therapies. We describe a variety of topical therapeutic options that are available to treat corneal neuropathic pain with a significant or primary peripheral component. We also describe possible mechanisms of action for such topical therapies. Recent Findings: Topical corticosteroids and blood-derived tear preparations can be helpful. Newer therapies, including topical lacosamide and low-dose naltrexone are emerging therapeutic options that may also be considered. Summary: Corneal neuropathic pain with a significant peripheral component may be managed with a variety of topical therapeutic options.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jeremy Nortey
- School of Medicine, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC, United Statesa
- Francis I. Proctor Foundation, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, United States
| | - David Smith
- A&O Compounding Pharmacy, Vallejo, CA, United States
| | - Gerami D. Seitzman
- Francis I. Proctor Foundation, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, United States
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, United States
| | - John A. Gonzales
- Francis I. Proctor Foundation, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, United States
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, United States
- *Correspondence: John A. Gonzales,
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28
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Patel S, Mittal R, Felix ER, Sarantopoulos KD, Levitt RC, Galor A. Differential Effects of Treatment Strategies in Individuals With Chronic Ocular Surface Pain With a Neuropathic Component. Front Pharmacol 2021; 12:788524. [PMID: 35002721 PMCID: PMC8733738 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2021.788524] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/02/2021] [Accepted: 12/08/2021] [Indexed: 01/13/2023] Open
Abstract
Background: Dysfunction at the ocular system via nociceptive or neuropathic mechanisms can lead to chronic ocular pain. While many studies have reported on responses to treatment for nociceptive pain, fewer have focused on neuropathic ocular pain. This retrospective study assessed clinical responses to pain treatment modalities in individuals with neuropathic component ocular surface pain. Methods: 101 individuals seen at the University of Miami Oculofacial Pain Clinic from January 2015 to August 2021 with ≥3 months of clinically diagnosed neuropathic pain were included. Patients were subcategorized (postsurgical, post-traumatic, migraine-like, and laterality) and self-reported treatment outcomes were assessed (no change, mild, moderate, or marked improvement). One-way ANOVA (analysis of variance) was used to examine relationships between follow up time and number of treatments attempted with pain improvement, and multivariable logistic regression was used to assess which modalities led to pain improvement. Results: The mean age was 55 years, and most patients were female (64.4%) and non-Hispanic (68.3%). Migraine-like pain (40.6%) was most common, followed by postsurgical (26.7%), post-traumatic (16.8%) and unilateral pain (15.8%). The most common oral therapies were α2δ ligands (48.5%), the m common topical therapies were autologous serum tears (20.8%) and topical corticosteroids (19.8%), and the most common adjuvant was periocular nerve block (24.8%). Oral therapies reduced pain in post-traumatic (81.2%), migraine-like (73%), and unilateral (72.7%) patients, but only in a minority of postsurgical (38.5%) patients. Similarly, topicals improved pain in post-traumatic (66.7%), migraine-like (78.6%), and unilateral (70%) compared to postsurgical (43.7%) patients. Non-oral/topical adjuvants reduced pain in postsurgical (54.5%), post-traumatic (71.4%), and migraine-like patients (73.3%) only. Multivariable analyses indicated migraine-like pain improved with concomitant oral α2δ ligands and adjuvant therapies, while postsurgical pain improved with topical anti-inflammatories. Those with no improvement in pain had a shorter mean follow-up (266.25 ± 262.56 days) than those with mild (396.65 ± 283.44), moderate (652 ± 413.92), or marked improvement (837.93 ± 709.35) (p < 0.005). Identical patterns were noted for number of attempted medications. Conclusion: Patients with migraine-like pain frequently experienced pain improvement, while postsurgical patients had the lowest response rates. Patients with a longer follow-up and who tried more therapies experienced more significant relief, suggesting multiple trials were necessary for pain reduction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sneh Patel
- Bascom Palmer Eye Institute, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL, United States
- Surgical Services, Miami Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Miami, FL, United States
| | - Rhiya Mittal
- Bascom Palmer Eye Institute, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL, United States
- Surgical Services, Miami Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Miami, FL, United States
| | - Elizabeth R. Felix
- Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL, United States
| | - Konstantinos D. Sarantopoulos
- Department of Anesthesiology, Perioperative Medicine and Pain Management, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL, United States
| | - Roy C. Levitt
- Department of Anesthesiology, Perioperative Medicine and Pain Management, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL, United States
- John T. MacDonald Foundation Department of Human Genetics, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL, United States
- John P. Hussman Institute for Human Genomics, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL, United States
| | - Anat Galor
- Bascom Palmer Eye Institute, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL, United States
- Surgical Services, Miami Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Miami, FL, United States
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Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW Ocular surface disease is a prevalent, diverse group of conditions that cause patient discomfort and decreased visual acuity and present considerable expense to both patients and healthcare systems. Autologous serum eye drops are a topical treatment modality derived from the patient's own blood. Use of serum eye drops for ocular surface disease has been promising due to biochemical similarities to endogenous tears. RECENT FINDINGS Use of serum eye drops for moderate to severe ocular surface diseases such as dry eye, corneal epithelial defects, and inflammatory conditions has become more prevalent. Recent studies have demonstrated that the use of serum eye drops is well-tolerated by patients and associated with improvement in patient-reported outcomes and objective dry eye parameters. Production of serum eye drops may vary, treatment costs can be significant, and the quality of evidence for serum eye drop use published from randomized controlled trials is modest, particularly for long-term treatment. Accessibility remains an area for improvement and may be complemented by allogeneic serum eye drops. SUMMARY Serum eye drops are frequently used as a safe, well-tolerated, and effective treatment for ocular surface disease. Further research is needed to assess long-term outcomes and improve accessibility.
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Latta L, Figueiredo FC, Ashery-Padan R, Collinson JM, Daniels J, Ferrari S, Szentmáry N, Solá S, Shalom-Feuerstein R, Lako M, Xapelli S, Aberdam D, Lagali N. Pathophysiology of aniridia-associated keratopathy: Developmental aspects and unanswered questions. Ocul Surf 2021; 22:245-266. [PMID: 34520870 DOI: 10.1016/j.jtos.2021.09.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/10/2021] [Revised: 07/19/2021] [Accepted: 09/08/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Aniridia, a rare congenital disease, is often characterized by a progressive, pronounced limbal insufficiency and ocular surface pathology termed aniridia-associated keratopathy (AAK). Due to the characteristics of AAK and its bilateral nature, clinical management is challenging and complicated by the multiple coexisting ocular and systemic morbidities in aniridia. Although it is primarily assumed that AAK originates from a congenital limbal stem cell deficiency, in recent years AAK and its pathogenesis has been questioned in the light of new evidence and a refined understanding of ocular development and the biology of limbal stem cells (LSCs) and their niche. Here, by consolidating and comparing the latest clinical and preclinical evidence, we discuss key unanswered questions regarding ocular developmental aspects crucial to AAK. We also highlight hypotheses on the potential role of LSCs and the ocular surface microenvironment in AAK. The insights thus gained lead to a greater appreciation for the role of developmental and cellular processes in the emergence of AAK. They also highlight areas for future research to enable a deeper understanding of aniridia, and thereby the potential to develop new treatments for this rare but blinding ocular surface disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- L Latta
- Dr. Rolf. M. Schwiete Center for Limbal Stem Cell and Aniridia Research, Saarland University, Homburg, Saar, Germany; Department of Ophthalmology, Saarland University Medical Center, Homburg, Saar, Germany.
| | - F C Figueiredo
- Department of Ophthalmology, Royal Victoria Infirmary, Newcastle Upon Tyne, United Kingdom
| | - R Ashery-Padan
- Sackler Faculty of Medicine, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, 69978, Israel
| | - J M Collinson
- School of Medicine, Medical Sciences and Nutrition, University of Aberdeen, Institute of Medical Sciences, Foresterhill, Aberdeen, AB25 2ZD, United Kingdom
| | - J Daniels
- Cells for Sight, UCL Institute of Ophthalmology, University College London, London, EC1V 9EL, UK
| | - S Ferrari
- The Veneto Eye Bank Foundation, Venice, Italy
| | - N Szentmáry
- Dr. Rolf. M. Schwiete Center for Limbal Stem Cell and Aniridia Research, Saarland University, Homburg, Saar, Germany
| | - S Solá
- Research Institute for Medicines (iMed.ULisboa), Faculty of Pharmacy, Universidade de Lisboa, Lisbon, Portugal
| | - R Shalom-Feuerstein
- Department of Genetics and Developmental Biology, The Rappaport Faculty of Medicine and Research Institute, Technion - Israel Institute of Technology, Haifa, Israel
| | - M Lako
- Biosciences Institute, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Newcastle University, Newcastle Upon Tyne, UK
| | - S Xapelli
- Instituto Farmacologia e Neurociências, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de Lisboa, Lisboa, Portugal; Instituto de Medicina Molecular João Lobo Antunes, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de Lisboa, Lisboa, Portugal
| | - D Aberdam
- Centre de Recherche des Cordeliers, INSERM U1138, Team 17, France; Université de Paris, 75006, Paris, France.
| | - N Lagali
- Department of Biomedical and Clinical Sciences, Linköping University, Linköping, Sweden; Department of Ophthalmology, Sørlandet Hospital Arendal, Arendal, Norway.
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Yavuz Saricay L, Bayraktutar BN, Kenyon BM, Hamrah P. Concurrent ocular pain in patients with neurotrophic keratopathy. Ocul Surf 2021; 22:143-151. [PMID: 34411735 DOI: 10.1016/j.jtos.2021.08.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/13/2020] [Revised: 08/03/2021] [Accepted: 08/09/2021] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE To illustrate that ocular pain may occur in patients with neurotrophic keratopathy (NK) that typically are thought to lack symptoms of discomfort, and that aa subset of these patients may also present with neuropathic corneal pain (NCP). METHOD Retrospective Case series of 7 stage 1 NK patients who presented with concurrent ocular pain, as confirmed by clinical examination, proparacaine challenge test, and in vivo corneal confocal microscopy (IVCM). Records were assessed for results of ocular surface disease index (OSDI), pain on visual analog scale (VAS), ocular pain assessment survey (OPAS), best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA), corneal fluorescein staining (CFS) score, and IVCM findings. IVCM findings were compared to that of 20 healthy reference controls. RESULTS Mean age of patients was 63.7 ± 11.6 (range 44-76) years and 56.9 ± 8.6 (range 42-74) years in reference controls (p = 0.11). At presentation, ocular discomfort was 8.0 ± 1.3 (range 7-10) on VAS and mean OSDI scores were 72.26 ± 6.81 (range 62.50-79.54). Mean BCVA was 20/40, and mean CFS scores were 3.43 ± 0.79 (range 2-4) on the Oxford scale. IVCM analysis showed significant decrease in mean total, main and branch nerve densities in ranges consistent with NK as compared to normal controls (p < 0.001 for all), increased dendritiform cell density in three patients (p < 0.001), and the presence of microneuromas in six of the patients. CONCLUSION Patients with NK are thought to present with hypoesthesia. However, nerve damage and inflammation, which play a role in the development of NK may result in the development of chronic ocular pain, such as NCP, resulting in potential underdiagnosis of either disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Leyla Yavuz Saricay
- Center for Translational Ocular Immunology, Department of Ophthalmology, Tufts Medical Center, Tufts University School of Medicine, Boston, USA; Cornea Service, New England Eye Center, Department of Ophthalmology, Tufts Medical School, Tufts Medical Center School of Medicine, Boston, USA
| | - Betul N Bayraktutar
- Center for Translational Ocular Immunology, Department of Ophthalmology, Tufts Medical Center, Tufts University School of Medicine, Boston, USA; Cornea Service, New England Eye Center, Department of Ophthalmology, Tufts Medical School, Tufts Medical Center School of Medicine, Boston, USA
| | - Brendan M Kenyon
- Center for Translational Ocular Immunology, Department of Ophthalmology, Tufts Medical Center, Tufts University School of Medicine, Boston, USA; Program in Neuroscience, School of Graduate Biomedical Sciences, Tufts University, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Pedram Hamrah
- Center for Translational Ocular Immunology, Department of Ophthalmology, Tufts Medical Center, Tufts University School of Medicine, Boston, USA; Cornea Service, New England Eye Center, Department of Ophthalmology, Tufts Medical School, Tufts Medical Center School of Medicine, Boston, USA; Program in Neuroscience, School of Graduate Biomedical Sciences, Tufts University, Boston, MA, USA; Department of Neuroscience, Tufts University School of Medicine, Boston, MA, USA.
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Cox SM, Kheirkhah A, Aggarwal S, Abedi F, Cavalcanti BM, Cruzat A, Hamrah P. Alterations in corneal nerves in different subtypes of dry eye disease: An in vivo confocal microscopy study. Ocul Surf 2021; 22:135-142. [PMID: 34407488 DOI: 10.1016/j.jtos.2021.08.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/20/2020] [Revised: 08/06/2021] [Accepted: 08/09/2021] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE To evaluate corneal subbasal nerve alterations in evaporative and aqueous-deficient dry eye disease (DED) as compared to controls. METHODS In this retrospective, cross-sectional, controlled study, eyes with a tear break-up time of less than 10 s were classified as DED. Those with an anesthetized Schirmer's strip of less than 5 mm were classified as aqueous-deficient DED. Three representative in vivo confocal microscopy images were graded for each subject for total, main, and branch nerve density and numbers. RESULTS Compared to 42 healthy subjects (42 eyes), the 70 patients with DED (139 eyes) showed lower total (18,579.0 ± 687.7 μm/mm2 vs. 21,014.7 ± 706.5, p = 0.026) and main (7,718.9 ± 273.9 vs. 9,561.4 ± 369.8, p < 0.001) nerve density, as well as lower total (15.5 ± 0.7/frame vs. 20.5 ± 1.3, p = 0.001), main (3.0 ± 0.1 vs. 3.8 ± 0.2, p = 0.001) and branch (12.5 ± 0.7 vs. 16.5 ± 1.2, p = 0.004) nerve numbers. Compared to the evaporative DED group, the aqueous-deficient DED group showed reduced total nerve density (19,969.9 ± 830.7 vs. 15,942.2 ± 1,135.7, p = 0.006), branch nerve density (11,964.9 ± 749.8 vs. 8,765.9 ± 798.5, p = 0.006), total nerves number (16.9 ± 0.8/frame vs. 13.0 ± 1.2, p = 0.002), and branch nerve number (13.8 ± 0.8 vs. 10.2 ± 1.1, p = 0.002). CONCLUSIONS Patients with DED demonstrate compromised corneal subbasal nerves, which is more pronounced in aqueous-deficient DED. This suggests a role for neurosensory abnormalities in the pathophysiology of DED.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stephanie M Cox
- Center for Translational Ocular Immunology and Cornea Service, Department of Ophthalmology, Tufts Medical Center, Tufts University School of Medicine, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Ahmad Kheirkhah
- Ocular Surface Imaging Center, Cornea & Refractive Surgery Service, Massachusetts Eye & Ear Infirmary, Department of Ophthalmology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Shruti Aggarwal
- Ocular Surface Imaging Center, Cornea & Refractive Surgery Service, Massachusetts Eye & Ear Infirmary, Department of Ophthalmology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Farshad Abedi
- Ocular Surface Imaging Center, Cornea & Refractive Surgery Service, Massachusetts Eye & Ear Infirmary, Department of Ophthalmology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Bernardo M Cavalcanti
- Ocular Surface Imaging Center, Cornea & Refractive Surgery Service, Massachusetts Eye & Ear Infirmary, Department of Ophthalmology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Andrea Cruzat
- Ocular Surface Imaging Center, Cornea & Refractive Surgery Service, Massachusetts Eye & Ear Infirmary, Department of Ophthalmology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Pedram Hamrah
- Center for Translational Ocular Immunology and Cornea Service, Department of Ophthalmology, Tufts Medical Center, Tufts University School of Medicine, Boston, MA, USA; Ocular Surface Imaging Center, Cornea & Refractive Surgery Service, Massachusetts Eye & Ear Infirmary, Department of Ophthalmology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA.
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Pérez Silguero D, Pérez Silguero MÁ, Pérez-Silguero Jiménez S, Encinas Pisa P. Long-lasting disabling photophobia after uneventful cataract surgery. ARCHIVOS DE LA SOCIEDAD ESPAÑOLA DE OFTALMOLOGÍA 2021; 96:446-448. [PMID: 34340785 DOI: 10.1016/j.oftale.2020.06.024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/30/2020] [Accepted: 06/18/2020] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
The case concerns a 54-year-old woman, with a history of fibromyalgia and normal preoperative ocular and systemic study, who presented with a long-lasting disabling photophobia, after sequential bilateral cataract surgery without complications. Photophobia was accompanied by good uncorrected VA, with no pain or subjective eye discomfort, without migraine or indicators of psychic conflict. It was refractory to any prescribed treatment of the ocular surface, finally responding to oral anticonvulsants (carbamazepine) that are frequently used in neuropathic pain. To the best of our knowledge this is the first reported case of a long-lasting disabling photophobia without pain and good VA after cataract surgery.
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Affiliation(s)
- D Pérez Silguero
- Clínica Oftalmológica Pérez Silguero, Las Palmas de Gran Canaria, Spain; Fundación Hospitalaria San José, Las Palmas de Gran Canaria, Spain.
| | - M Á Pérez Silguero
- Clínica Oftalmológica Pérez Silguero, Las Palmas de Gran Canaria, Spain; Hospital La Paloma, Las Palmas de Gran Canaria, Spain
| | | | - P Encinas Pisa
- Clínica Oftalmológica Pérez Silguero, Las Palmas de Gran Canaria, Spain
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Neuropathic Corneal Pain Following LASIK Surgery: A Retrospective Case Series. Ophthalmol Ther 2021; 10:677-689. [PMID: 34129211 PMCID: PMC8319231 DOI: 10.1007/s40123-021-00358-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/04/2021] [Accepted: 05/28/2021] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction Transient dry eye symptoms have been reported following laser in situ keratomileusis (LASIK). Very rarely, patients may present with debilitating symptoms of dry eye syndrome (DES) with limited or no evidence of ocular surface disease. These patients are diagnosed with a form of DES known as neuropathic corneal pain (NCP). Patients and Methods This study is a retrospective medical record review of a case series of 18 patients who developed NCP post-LASIK over the years 1996–2021. All patients who developed severe ocular pain following LASIK consistent with NCP were included. Patients with severe ocular pain who had evidence of severe ocular surface disease or other ophthalmic etiology to explain their debilitating symptoms were not included. Results The average age of patients in our study was 39.5 years. The majority of our patients were female (72.2%) and of Caucasian ancestry (83.3%). The average onset of symptoms was 9.6 months post-LASIK. Patients had past medical histories significant for neuropsychiatric conditions (50%), functional pain syndromes (22.2%), autoimmune diseases (33.3%), and hypothyroidism (27.8%), and the occurrence of these was higher than the national prevalence of these diseases. Symptoms were consistent with the severity and characteristics defining NCP. Treatment was multimodal, involved topical and systemic therapies, and was unique to each patient. Overall, the majority of patients had clinical improvement in symptoms following treatment with regular follow-up. Conclusion Although rare, the 26-year prevalence of NCP post-LASIK in our study was roughly 1 in 900 cases. The mean time to onset after surgery was delayed at 9.6 months. Certain risk factors such as neuropsychiatric conditions, history of functional pain syndromes, history of autoimmune conditions, and hypothyroidism may predispose patients to the development of this condition. Patients benefited from proper diagnosis and a multimodal approach to treatment.
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Sánchez-González JM, Alonso-Aliste F, Borroni D, Amián-Cordero J, De-Hita-Cantalejo C, Capote-Puente R, Bautista-Llamas MJ, Sánchez-González MC, Rodríguez-Calvo-de-Mora M, Rocha-de-Lossada C. Plasma Rich in Growth Factors (PRGF) in Transepithelial Photorefractive Keratectomy (TPRK). J Clin Med 2021; 10:jcm10091939. [PMID: 33946455 PMCID: PMC8124326 DOI: 10.3390/jcm10091939] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/16/2021] [Revised: 04/27/2021] [Accepted: 04/28/2021] [Indexed: 01/13/2023] Open
Abstract
To evaluate the usage of plasma rich in growth factor (PRGF) in transepithelial photorefractive keratectomy (TPRK) in low and moderate myopia, patients who underwent myopic and astigmatism TPRK with PRGF were involved in this retrospective, observational study. Subjects underwent a surgical procedure between February 2019 and June 2019. A three-month follow-up was recorded. Pain score was assessed with a visual analogue scale (0–10) and re-epithelialization time recorded. A total of 48 eyes from 24 patients were recruited. Mean uncorrected distance visual acuity (UDVA) was 20/20.31 (0.00 ± 0.02 LogMAR). A total of 98% of eyes did not change corrected distance visual acuity (CDVA) lines. Two percent of eyes lost one line of CDVA. Preoperative spherical equivalent was −2.67 ± 1.37 D and after three months changed to −0.21 ± 0.34 D, and 2% of eyes changed 0.50 D or more between one and three months. Pain score was 3.29 ± 0.61 (3 to 6) score points at day one and 0.08 ± 0.27 score points at day seven. Finally, re-epithelialization time was 2.50 ± 1.20 days. PRGF addition to conventional refractive treatment such as TPRK seems to alleviate immediate postoperative pain and positively contribute to corneal re-epithelization time.
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Affiliation(s)
- José-María Sánchez-González
- Department of Physics of Condensed Matter, Optics Area, University of Seville, 41012 Seville, Spain; (C.D.-H.-C.); (R.C.-P.); (M.-J.B.-L.); (M.C.S.-G.)
- Department of Ophthalmology, Tecnolaser Clinic Vision, 41018 Seville, Spain; (F.A.-A.); (J.A.-C.)
- Correspondence:
| | - Federico Alonso-Aliste
- Department of Ophthalmology, Tecnolaser Clinic Vision, 41018 Seville, Spain; (F.A.-A.); (J.A.-C.)
| | - Davide Borroni
- The Veneto Eye Bank Foundation, 30174 Venice, Italy;
- Department of Doctoral Studies, Riga Stradins University, LV-1007 Riga, Latvia
| | - Jonatan Amián-Cordero
- Department of Ophthalmology, Tecnolaser Clinic Vision, 41018 Seville, Spain; (F.A.-A.); (J.A.-C.)
| | - Concepción De-Hita-Cantalejo
- Department of Physics of Condensed Matter, Optics Area, University of Seville, 41012 Seville, Spain; (C.D.-H.-C.); (R.C.-P.); (M.-J.B.-L.); (M.C.S.-G.)
| | - Raúl Capote-Puente
- Department of Physics of Condensed Matter, Optics Area, University of Seville, 41012 Seville, Spain; (C.D.-H.-C.); (R.C.-P.); (M.-J.B.-L.); (M.C.S.-G.)
| | - María-José Bautista-Llamas
- Department of Physics of Condensed Matter, Optics Area, University of Seville, 41012 Seville, Spain; (C.D.-H.-C.); (R.C.-P.); (M.-J.B.-L.); (M.C.S.-G.)
| | - María Carmen Sánchez-González
- Department of Physics of Condensed Matter, Optics Area, University of Seville, 41012 Seville, Spain; (C.D.-H.-C.); (R.C.-P.); (M.-J.B.-L.); (M.C.S.-G.)
| | | | - Carlos Rocha-de-Lossada
- Department of Ophthalmology (Qvision), Vithas Virgen del Mar Hospital, 04120 Almería, Spain;
- Department of Ophthalmology, University Hospital Virgen de las Nieves, 18014 Granada, Spain
- Department of Ophthalmology, Ceuta Medical Center, 51001 Ceuta, Spain
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Abstract
Laser scanning in vivo confocal microscopy is a useful clinical tool to assess the corneal nerves in human and laboratory animals. With this new technology, the use of terms such as “neuromas” and “microneuromas” is becoming popular to describe nerve structures seen in humans. Here, we point out that the sites where stromal nerves enter the corneal epithelium are often hyperreflective and can appear dysmorphic when imaged using in vivo confocal microscopy. Furthermore, we clarify what is known anatomically about how the nerves enter the corneal epithelium from the stroma, and we urge colleagues to differentiate between hyperreflective foci at the corneal stromal–epithelial nerve penetration sites and alterations in nerve morphology secondary to injury or disease.
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Kim M, Lee Y, Mehra D, Sabater AL, Galor A. Dry eye: why artificial tears are not always the answer. BMJ Open Ophthalmol 2021; 6:e000697. [PMID: 33907713 PMCID: PMC8039249 DOI: 10.1136/bmjophth-2020-000697] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/24/2020] [Revised: 03/18/2021] [Accepted: 03/31/2021] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Dry eye disease (DED) is a multifactorial disease that manifests in patients with a variety of symptoms and signs such as ocular pain, visual issues, rapid tear evaporation and/or decreased tear production. It is a global health problem and is the leading cause of optometry and ophthalmology clinic visits. The mainstay therapy for DED is artificial tears (ATs), which mimics tears and improves tear stability and properties. ATs have been found to improve symptoms and signs of disease in all DED subtypes, including aqueous deficient DED and evaporative DED. However, given the heterogeneity of DED, it is not surprising that ATs are not effective in all patients. When AT fails to relieve symptoms and/or signs of DED, it is critical to identify the underlying contributors to disease and escalate therapy appropriately. This includes underlying systemic diseases, meibomian gland dysfunction, anatomical abnormalities and neuropathic dysfunction. Thus, this review will discuss the benefits and limitations of ATs and review conditions when escalation of therapy should be considered in DED.
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Affiliation(s)
- Minji Kim
- Bascom Palmer Eye Institute, University of Miami, Miami, Florida, USA
| | - Yonghoon Lee
- Bascom Palmer Eye Institute, University of Miami, Miami, Florida, USA
| | - Divy Mehra
- Bascom Palmer Eye Institute, University of Miami, Miami, Florida, USA
- Ophthalmology, Miami Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Miami, Florida, USA
| | - Alfonso L Sabater
- Bascom Palmer Eye Institute, University of Miami, Miami, Florida, USA
| | - Anat Galor
- Bascom Palmer Eye Institute, University of Miami, Miami, Florida, USA
- Ophthalmology, Miami Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Miami, Florida, USA
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38
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Aragona P, Giannaccare G, Mencucci R, Rubino P, Cantera E, Rolando M. Modern approach to the treatment of dry eye, a complex multifactorial disease: a P.I.C.A.S.S.O. board review. Br J Ophthalmol 2021; 105:446-453. [PMID: 32703782 PMCID: PMC8005804 DOI: 10.1136/bjophthalmol-2019-315747] [Citation(s) in RCA: 74] [Impact Index Per Article: 24.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/18/2019] [Revised: 03/18/2020] [Accepted: 06/01/2020] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
Dry eye disease (DED) is a growing public health concern affecting quality of life and visual function, with a significant socio-economic impact. It is characterised by the loss of homoeostasis, resulting in tear film instability, hyperosmolarity and inflammation of the ocular surface. If the innate immune response is unable to cope with internal bodily or environmental adverse conditions, the persistent, self-maintaining vicious circle of inflammation leads to the chronic form of the disease. Treatment of DED should be aimed at the restoration of the homoeostasis of the ocular surface system. A proper diagnostic approach is fundamental to define the relevance and importance of each of the DED main pathogenic factors, namely tear film instability, epithelial damage and inflammation. Consideration also needs to be given concerning two other pathogenic elements: lid margin changes and nerve damage. All the factors that maintain the vicious circle of DED in the patient's clinical presentation have to be considered and possibly treated simultaneously. The treatment should be long-lasting and personalised since it has to be adapted to the different clinical conditions observed along the course of the disease. Since DED treatment is frequently unable to provide fast and complete relief from symptoms, empathy with patients and willingness to explain to them the natural history of the disease are mandatory to improve patients' compliance. Furthermore, patients should be instructed about the possible need to increase the frequency and/or change the type of treatment according to the fluctuation of symptoms, following a preplanned rescue regimen.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pasquale Aragona
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Ophthalmology Clinic, University of Messina, Messina, Italy
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39
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Hwang J, Dermer H, Galor A. Can in vivo confocal microscopy differentiate between sub-types of dry eye disease? A review. Clin Exp Ophthalmol 2021; 49:373-387. [PMID: 33769651 DOI: 10.1111/ceo.13924] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/29/2020] [Revised: 03/16/2021] [Accepted: 03/20/2021] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
Many studies utilised in vivo confocal microscopy (IVCM) to associate variations in corneal structures with dry eye disease (DED). However, DED is an umbrella term that covers various aetiologies and presentations. This review analyses populations by DED aetiology to determine the relationships between IVCM parameters and specific DED sub-types. It focuses on the most commonly examined structures, sub-basal nerves and dendritic cells. Across the literature, most studies found individuals with immune-mediated DED had lower sub-basal nerve fibre number and density than controls, with smaller differences between non-immune DED and controls. However, wide ranges of values reported across studies demonstrate considerable overlap between DED sub-types and controls, rendering these metrics less helpful when diagnosing an individual patient. Dendritic cell density was considerably higher in individuals with immune-mediated DED than in non-immune DED or controls. As such, dendritic cell density may be a better indicator of DED associated with a systemic immune-mediated process.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jodi Hwang
- Bascom Palmer Eye Institute, Department of Ophthalmology, University of Miami, Miami, Florida, USA.,Department of Ophthalmology, Miami Veterans Administration Medical Center, Miami, Florida, USA
| | - Harrison Dermer
- Bascom Palmer Eye Institute, Department of Ophthalmology, University of Miami, Miami, Florida, USA.,Department of Ophthalmology, Miami Veterans Administration Medical Center, Miami, Florida, USA
| | - Anat Galor
- Bascom Palmer Eye Institute, Department of Ophthalmology, University of Miami, Miami, Florida, USA.,Department of Ophthalmology, Miami Veterans Administration Medical Center, Miami, Florida, USA
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40
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Chinnery HR, Rajan R, Jiao H, Wu M, Zhang AC, De Silva MEH, Makrai E, Stepp MA, Di Girolamo N, Downie LE. Identification of presumed corneal neuromas and microneuromas using laser-scanning in vivo confocal microscopy: a systematic review. Br J Ophthalmol 2021; 106:765-771. [PMID: 33568390 DOI: 10.1136/bjophthalmol-2020-318156] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/06/2020] [Revised: 12/28/2020] [Accepted: 01/19/2021] [Indexed: 11/03/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND/AIMS This systematic review critically evaluated peer-reviewed publications describing morphological features consistent with, or using terms related to, a 'neuroma' or 'microneuroma' in the human cornea using laser-scanning in vivo confocal microscopy (IVCM). METHODS The review was prospectively registered on PROSPERO (CRD42020160038). Comprehensive literature searches were performed in Ovid MEDLINE, Ovid Embase and the Cochrane Library in November 2019. The review included primary research studies and reviews that described laser-scanning IVCM for examining human corneal nerves. Papers had to include at least one of a pre-specified set of keyword stems, broadly related to neuromas and microneuromas, to describe a corneal nerve feature. RESULTS Twenty-five papers (20 original studies; 5 reviews) were eligible. Three original studies evaluated corneal nerve features in healthy eyes. Most papers assessed corneal nerves in ocular and systemic conditions; seven studies did not include a control/comparator group. There was overlap in terminology used to describe nerve features in healthy and diseased corneas (eg, bulb-like/bulbous, penetration, end/s/ing). Inspection of IVCM images within the papers revealed that features termed 'neuromas' and 'microneuromas' could potentially be physiological corneal stromal-epithelial nerve penetration sites. We identified inconsistent definitions for terms, and limitations in IVCM image acquisition, sampling and/or reporting that may introduce bias and lead to inaccurate representation of physiological nerve characteristics as pathological. CONCLUSION These findings identify a need for consistent nomenclature and definitions, and rigorous IVCM scanning and analysis protocols to clarify the prevalence of physiological, as opposed to pathological, corneal nerve features.
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Affiliation(s)
- Holly Rose Chinnery
- Department of Optometry and Vision Sciences, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
| | - Rajni Rajan
- Department of Optometry and Vision Sciences, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
| | - Haihan Jiao
- Department of Optometry and Vision Sciences, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
| | - Mengliang Wu
- Department of Optometry and Vision Sciences, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
| | - Alexis Ceecee Zhang
- Department of Optometry and Vision Sciences, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
| | | | - Eve Makrai
- Department of Optometry and Vision Sciences, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
| | - Mary Ann Stepp
- School of Medicine & Health Sciences, The George Washington University, Washington, DC, USA
| | - Nick Di Girolamo
- School of Medical Sciences, University of New South Wales, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Laura Elizabeth Downie
- Department of Optometry and Vision Sciences, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
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Abstract
A biomarker is a "characteristic that is measured as an indicator of normal biological processes, pathogenic processes, or responses to an exposure or intervention, including therapeutic interventions." Recently, calls for biomarkers for ocular surface diseases have increased, and advancements in imaging technologies have aided in allowing imaging biomarkers to serve as a potential solution for this need. This review focuses on the state of imaging biomarkers for ocular surface diseases, specifically non-invasive tear break-up time (NIBUT), tear meniscus measurement and corneal epithelial thickness with anterior segment optical coherence tomography (OCT), meibomian gland morphology with infrared meibography and in vivo confocal microscopy (IVCM), ocular redness with grading scales, and cellular corneal immune cells and nerve assessment by IVCM. Extensive literature review was performed for analytical and clinical validation that currently exists for potential imaging biomarkers. Our summary suggests that the reported analytical and clinical validation state for potential imaging biomarkers is broad, with some having good to excellent intra- and intergrader agreement to date. Examples of these include NIBUT for dry eye disease, ocular redness grading scales, and detection of corneal immune cells by IVCM for grading and monitoring inflammation. Further examples are nerve assessment by IVCM for monitoring severity of diabetes mellitus and neurotrophic keratitis, and corneal epithelial thickness assessment with anterior segment OCT for the diagnosis of early keratoconus. However, additional analytical validation for these biomarkers is required before clinical application as a biomarker.
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Guerrero-Moreno A, Baudouin C, Melik Parsadaniantz S, Réaux-Le Goazigo A. Morphological and Functional Changes of Corneal Nerves and Their Contribution to Peripheral and Central Sensory Abnormalities. Front Cell Neurosci 2020; 14:610342. [PMID: 33362474 PMCID: PMC7758484 DOI: 10.3389/fncel.2020.610342] [Citation(s) in RCA: 46] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/25/2020] [Accepted: 11/18/2020] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
The cornea is the most densely innervated and sensitive tissue in the body. The cornea is exclusively innervated by C- and A-delta fibers, including mechano-nociceptors that are triggered by noxious mechanical stimulation, polymodal nociceptors that are excited by mechanical, chemical, and thermal stimuli, and cold thermoreceptors that are activated by cooling. Noxious stimulations activate corneal nociceptors whose cell bodies are located in the trigeminal ganglion (TG) and project central axons to the trigeminal brainstem sensory complex. Ocular pain, in particular, that driven by corneal nerves, is considered to be a core symptom of inflammatory and traumatic disorders of the ocular surface. Ocular surface injury affecting corneal nerves and leading to inflammatory responses can occur under multiple pathological conditions, such as chemical burn, persistent dry eye, and corneal neuropathic pain as well as after some ophthalmological surgical interventions such as photorefractive surgery. This review depicts the morphological and functional changes of corneal nerve terminals following corneal damage and dry eye disease (DED), both ocular surface conditions leading to sensory abnormalities. In addition, the recent fundamental and clinical findings of the importance of peripheral and central neuroimmune interactions in the development of corneal hypersensitivity are discussed. Next, the cellular and molecular changes of corneal neurons in the TG and central structures that are driven by corneal nerve abnormalities are presented. A better understanding of the corneal nerve abnormalities as well as neuroimmune interactions may contribute to the identification of a novel therapeutic targets for alleviating corneal pain.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Christophe Baudouin
- Sorbonne Université, INSERM, CNRS, Institut de la Vision, IHU FOReSIGHT, Paris, France.,CHNO des Quinze-Vingts, IHU FOReSIGHT, INSERM-DGOS CIC 1423, Paris, France.,Department of Ophthalmology, Ambroise Paré Hospital, AP-HP, University of Versailles Saint-Quentin-en-Yvelines, Boulogne-Billancourt, France
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Antinociceptive effect of triterpene acetyl aleuritolic acid isolated from Croton zehntneri in adult zebrafish (Danio rerio). Biochem Biophys Res Commun 2020; 534:478-484. [PMID: 33261884 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbrc.2020.11.056] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/26/2020] [Accepted: 11/16/2020] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
Abstract
Croton zehntneri is a plant known as canelinha de cunhã, prevalent in the northeast region of Brazil. Many constituents of the vegetable have already been studied, and their pharmacological properties have been proven, but this is the first study to analyze the antinociceptive effect in adult zebrafish (ZFa) of the triterpene acetyl aleuritolic acid (AAA) isolated from the stem bark. The animals (ZFa; n = 6/group) were treated intraperitoneally (ip; 20 μL) with AAA (0.1 or 0.3 or 1.0 mg/mL) or vehicle (0.9% saline; 20 μL), and submitted to the locomotor activity test, as well as 96 h acute toxicity. Other groups (n = 6/each) received the same treatments and underwent acute nociception tests (formalin, cinnamaldehyde, glutamate, acid saline, capsaicin, and hypertonic saline). Possible neuromodulation mechanisms were evaluated. AAA (0.1 or 0.3 or 1.0 mg/mL) reduced the nociceptive behavior induced by acid saline and capsaicin, as well as inhibited corneal nociception induced by hypertonic saline, both without altering the animals' locomotor system and without toxicity. These analgesic effects of AAA were significantly (p > 0.05) similar to those of morphine, used as a positive control. The antinociceptive effect of AAA was inhibited by methylene blue, ketamine, camphor, ruthenium red, amiloride, and mefenamic acid. The antinociceptive effect of AAA on the cornea of animals was inhibited by capsazepine. Therefore, AAA showed pharmacological potential for the treatment of acute pain, and this effect is modulated by cGMP, NMDA receptors, transient receptor potential channels (TRPs), ASICs and has pharmacological potential for the treatment of corneal pain modulated by the TRPV1 channel.
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44
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Issar T, Tummanapalli SS, Kwai NCG, Chiang JCB, Arnold R, Poynten AM, Markoulli M, Krishnan AV. Associations between acute glucose control and peripheral nerve structure and function in type 1 diabetes. Diabet Med 2020; 37:1553-1560. [PMID: 32298478 DOI: 10.1111/dme.14306] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 04/09/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
AIM To examine the associations between continuous overlapping net glycaemic action (CONGA), percentage time in hyperglycaemia (%HG) or normoglycaemia (%NG) and peripheral nerve structure and function in type 1 diabetes. METHODS Twenty-seven participants with type 1 diabetes underwent continuous glucose monitoring followed by corneal confocal microscopy and nerve excitability assessments. CONGA, %HG (> 10.0 mmol/l) and %NG (3.9-10.0 mmol/l) were correlated against corneal nerve fibre length and density in the central cornea and inferior whorl region, corneal microneuromas, and a nerve excitability score while controlling for age, sex, diabetes duration and HbA1c . RESULTS An increase in CONGA [median 2.5 (2.0-3.1) mmol/l] or %HG (mean 46 ± 18%) was associated with a worse nerve excitability score (r = -0.433, P = 0.036 and r = -0.670, P = 0.0012, respectively). By contrast, greater %NG (51 ± 17%) correlated with better nerve excitability scores (r = 0.672, P = 0.0011). Logistic regression revealed that increasing %HG increased the likelihood of abnormal nerve function [odds ratio (OR) 1.11, 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.01-1.23; P = 0.037). An increase in CONGA and %HG were associated with worsening nerve conduction measures, whereas longer %NG correlated with improved nerve conduction variables. CONGA and %HG were associated with inferior whorl corneal nerve fibre length (r = 0.483, P = 0.034 and r = 0.591, P = 0.021, respectively) and number of microneuromas (r = 0.433, P = 0.047 and r = 0.516, P = 0.020, respectively). CONCLUSIONS Short-term measures of glucose control are associated with impaired nerve function and alterations in corneal nerve morphology.
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Affiliation(s)
- T Issar
- Prince of Wales Clinical School, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - S S Tummanapalli
- School of Optometry & Vision Science, University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - N C G Kwai
- Prince of Wales Clinical School, Sydney, NSW, Australia
- Department of Exercise Physiology, UNSW-Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - J C B Chiang
- School of Optometry & Vision Science, University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - R Arnold
- Department of Exercise Physiology, UNSW-Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - A M Poynten
- Department of Endocrinology, Prince of Wales Hospital, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - M Markoulli
- School of Optometry & Vision Science, University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - A V Krishnan
- Prince of Wales Clinical School, Sydney, NSW, Australia
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Ozmen MC, Dieckmann G, Cox SM, Rashad R, Paracha R, Sanayei N, Morkin MI, Hamrah P. Efficacy and tolerability of nortriptyline in the management of neuropathic corneal pain. Ocul Surf 2020; 18:814-820. [PMID: 32860971 DOI: 10.1016/j.jtos.2020.08.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/07/2020] [Revised: 08/04/2020] [Accepted: 08/14/2020] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE Neuropathic corneal pain (NCP) is a recently acknowledged disease entity. However, there is no consensus in potential treatment strategies, particularly in patients with a centralized component of pain. This study aims to assess the efficacy and tolerability of the tricyclic antidepressant, nortriptyline, among NCP patients. METHODS Patients with clinically diagnosed NCP and a centralized component of pain, treated with oral nortriptyline, who had recorded pain scores as assessed by the ocular pain assessment survey at the first and last visit were included. Patients were excluded if they had any other ocular pathology that might result in pain or had less than 4 weeks of nortriptyline use. Demographics, time between visits, concomitant medications, systemic and ocular co-morbidities, duration of NCP, side effects, ocular pain scores, and quality of life (QoL) assessment were recorded. RESULTS Thirty patients with a mean age of 53.1 ± 18.5 were included. Male to female ratio was 8:22. Mean ocular pain in the past 24 h improved from 5.7 ± 2.1 to 3.6 ± 2.1 after 10.5 ± 9.1 months (p < 0.0001). Twelve patients (40.0%) had equal to or more than 50% improvement, 6 patients (20.0%) had 30-49% improvement, 6 patients (20.0%) had 1-29% improvement, 4 patients (13.3%) did not improve, while 2 patients (6.7%) reported increase in pain levels. Mean QoL improved from 6.0 ± 2.5 to 4.3 ± 2.4 (p = 0.019). Eight patients (26.6%) discontinued treatment due to persistent side effects, despite improvement by 22.4%. CONCLUSION Nortriptyline was effective in relieving NCP symptoms in patients with centralized component and insufficient response to other systemic and topical therapies who tolerated the drug for at least 4 weeks. Nortriptyline may be used in the management of patients with NCP.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Cuneyt Ozmen
- Center for Translational Ocular Immunology, Department of Ophthalmology, Tufts Medical Center, Tufts University School of Medicine, Boston, USA; Cornea Service, New England Eye Center, Department of Ophthalmology, Tufts Medical School, Tufts University School of Medicine, Boston, USA
| | - Gabriela Dieckmann
- Center for Translational Ocular Immunology, Department of Ophthalmology, Tufts Medical Center, Tufts University School of Medicine, Boston, USA; Cornea Service, New England Eye Center, Department of Ophthalmology, Tufts Medical School, Tufts University School of Medicine, Boston, USA
| | - Stephanie M Cox
- Center for Translational Ocular Immunology, Department of Ophthalmology, Tufts Medical Center, Tufts University School of Medicine, Boston, USA; Cornea Service, New England Eye Center, Department of Ophthalmology, Tufts Medical School, Tufts University School of Medicine, Boston, USA
| | - Ramy Rashad
- Center for Translational Ocular Immunology, Department of Ophthalmology, Tufts Medical Center, Tufts University School of Medicine, Boston, USA
| | - Rumzah Paracha
- Center for Translational Ocular Immunology, Department of Ophthalmology, Tufts Medical Center, Tufts University School of Medicine, Boston, USA
| | - Nedda Sanayei
- Center for Translational Ocular Immunology, Department of Ophthalmology, Tufts Medical Center, Tufts University School of Medicine, Boston, USA
| | - Melina I Morkin
- Center for Translational Ocular Immunology, Department of Ophthalmology, Tufts Medical Center, Tufts University School of Medicine, Boston, USA; Cornea Service, New England Eye Center, Department of Ophthalmology, Tufts Medical School, Tufts University School of Medicine, Boston, USA
| | - Pedram Hamrah
- Center for Translational Ocular Immunology, Department of Ophthalmology, Tufts Medical Center, Tufts University School of Medicine, Boston, USA; Cornea Service, New England Eye Center, Department of Ophthalmology, Tufts Medical School, Tufts University School of Medicine, Boston, USA.
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Michael R, Jeffers JV, Messenger W, Aref AA. Gabapentin for presumed neuropathic ocular pain. Am J Ophthalmol Case Rep 2020; 19:100836. [PMID: 32760852 PMCID: PMC7390772 DOI: 10.1016/j.ajoc.2020.100836] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/09/2018] [Revised: 07/08/2020] [Accepted: 07/15/2020] [Indexed: 11/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Purpose To report a case of chronic neuropathic ocular pain in a patient without visual complaints. Observations A 37-year-old male with a history of bilateral laser-assisted in situ keratomileusis (LASIK) presented with pain symptoms of 8 months duration in the left eye. The prior LASIK surgery was complicated by corneal ectasia in the left eye requiring penetrating keratoplasty and subsequent placement of a glaucoma drainage implant for uncontrolled, elevated intraocular pressure. The patient was evaluated with a complete clinical examination, including Goldmann applanation tonometry, dilated fundus examination, fluorescein angiography, optical coherence tomography, and magnetic resonance imaging. After 3 weeks of treatment with gabapentin 300 mg BID, the patient reported complete resolution of the ocular pain. Conclusions and Importance The pathophysiology of neuropathic ocular pain remains poorly understood. Clinical evaluation often reveals minimal ophthalmic exam findings, leading to an underdiagnosis of the condition by ophthalmologists. Gabapentin may be an underutilized medication in the treatment of chronic ocular pain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Raman Michael
- University of Illinois at Chicago College of Medicine, USA
| | | | - Wyatt Messenger
- Illinois Eye and Ear Infirmary, University of Illinois at Chicago, USA
| | - Ahmad A Aref
- Illinois Eye and Ear Infirmary, University of Illinois at Chicago, USA
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Comparison of clinical characteristics of post-refractive surgery-related and post-herpetic neuropathic corneal pain. Ocul Surf 2020; 18:641-650. [PMID: 32707336 PMCID: PMC7686270 DOI: 10.1016/j.jtos.2020.07.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/11/2020] [Revised: 06/26/2020] [Accepted: 07/09/2020] [Indexed: 01/20/2023]
Abstract
Purpose: To compare the clinical characteristics and in vivo confocal microscopy (IVCM) findings of patients with neuropathic corneal pain (NCP) due to refractive surgery (RS-NCP) and herpetic eye disease (H-NCP) to controls. Methods: Sixteen patients with RS-NCP and 7 patients with H-NCP, and 37 healthy reference age- and sex-matched healthy controls were included to the study. The medical records were reviewed for demographic features, detailed disease history, ocular surface disease index (OSDI), ocular pain assessment survey (OPAS) scores. IVCM images of patients were analyzed and compared to reference controls by two masked observers. Results: The mean pain intensity score for the last 24 h (5.1 ± 2.4 vs. 3.9 ± 1.2; p = 0.27), last 2 weeks (6.1 ± 2.5 vs. 4.8 ± 2.3; p = 0.13) for RS-NCP vs. H-NCP respectively, and quality of life scores (p = 0.23) were similar in both groups. Quality of life, especially mood (p = 0.06) and enjoying life/relations to others (p = 0.10) were affected in both groups, but were not statistically significant between groups. The mean total nerve density was lower in RS-NCP (5,702.4 ± 4,599.0 μm/mm2) compared to their respective controls (26,422.8 ± 4,491.0; p < 0.001) and in the H-NCP group (2,149.5 ± 2,985.9) compared to their respective controls (22,948.8 ± 3,169.0; p < 0.001). Alterations in DC density were similar between all groups (38.3 ± 48.0 cells/mm2 in RS-NCP, 61.0 ± 76.9 in H-NCP, p = 0.95). Conclusion: Neuropathic corneal pain patients due to refractive surgery show similar clinical characteristics, pain levels, quality of life impact, and IVCM findings as patients with NCP due to herpetic eye disease.
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Giannaccare G, Scorcia V. False Myths versus Medical Facts: Ten Common Misconceptions Related to Dry Eye Disease. Biomedicines 2020; 8:biomedicines8060172. [PMID: 32599803 PMCID: PMC7345286 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines8060172] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/14/2020] [Revised: 06/10/2020] [Accepted: 06/19/2020] [Indexed: 02/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Since the first definition of dry eye, rapid progress has been made in this field over the past decades that has guided profound changes in the definition, classification, diagnosis and management of the disease. Although dry eye is one of the most frequently encountered ocular conditions, various “old” misconceptions persist, in particular among comprehensive ophthalmologists not specialized in ocular surface diseases. These misconceptions hamper the correct diagnosis and the proper management of dry eye in the routine clinical practice. In the present review, we described the 10 most common misconceptions related to dry eye and provided an evidence-based guide for reconsidering them using the format “false myth versus medical fact”. These misconceptions concern the dry eye definition and classification (#1, #2, #3), disease physiopathology (#4), diagnosis (#5), symptoms (#6, #7) and treatment (#8, #9, #10). Nowadays, dry eye is still an under-recognized and evolving disease that poses significant clinical challenges to ophthalmologists. The two major reasons behind these challenges include the heterogeneity of the conditions that fall under the umbrella term of dry eye and the common discrepancy between signs and symptoms.
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Kojima T, Dogru M, Kawashima M, Nakamura S, Tsubota K. Advances in the diagnosis and treatment of dry eye. Prog Retin Eye Res 2020; 78:100842. [PMID: 32004729 DOI: 10.1016/j.preteyeres.2020.100842] [Citation(s) in RCA: 80] [Impact Index Per Article: 20.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/03/2019] [Revised: 01/19/2020] [Accepted: 01/24/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
The core mechanism of dry eye is the tear film instability. Tear film-oriented diagnosis (TFOD) is a concept to clarify the cause of tear film instability by tear film, and tear film-oriented treatment (TFOT) is a concept to treat dry eye disease by replacing the lacking components of the tear film layer based on the TFOD. In TFOD, the fluorescein breakup pattern of the tear film is important, and the subtype of dry eye can be judged to some extent from the breakup patterns. Current noninvasive devices related to the dynamic analysis of the tear film and visual acuity enabled the diagnosis of dry eye, subtype analysis, and the extent of severity. In Asian countries, secretagogues represent the main treatment in TFOT. Since meibomian gland dysfunction is a factor that greatly affects the tear breakup time, its treatment is also essential in the dry eye treatment strategy. A newly discovered dry eye subtype is the short breakup time-type (BUT) of dry eye. The only abnormal finding in this disease is the short BUT, suggesting a relationship with ocular neuropathic pain and eye strain. Recently, data from many studies have accumulated which show that dry eye is a life-style disease. In addition to the treatment of dry eyes, it is becoming possible to prevent the onset by intervening with the daily habits, diet, exercise and sleep, etc. It has been pointed out that oxidative stress is also involved in the pathology of dry eye, and intervention is being carried out by improving diet and taking supplements. Future research will be needed to link clinical findings to the molecular biological findings in the tear film.
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Affiliation(s)
- Takashi Kojima
- Department of Ophthalmology, Keio University School of Medicine, Japan
| | - Murat Dogru
- Department of Ophthalmology, Keio University School of Medicine, Japan
| | - Motoko Kawashima
- Department of Ophthalmology, Keio University School of Medicine, Japan
| | - Shigeru Nakamura
- Department of Ophthalmology, Keio University School of Medicine, Japan
| | - Kazuo Tsubota
- Department of Ophthalmology, Keio University School of Medicine, Japan; Tsubota Laboratory, Inc., Tokyo, Japan.
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Huang CT, Chu HS, Hung KC, Chen LW, Chen MY, Hu FR, Chen WL. The effect of human platelet lysate on corneal nerve regeneration. Br J Ophthalmol 2019; 105:884-890. [PMID: 31748333 DOI: 10.1136/bjophthalmol-2019-314408] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/12/2019] [Revised: 08/09/2019] [Accepted: 11/07/2019] [Indexed: 11/03/2022]
Abstract
AIM This study aimed to test whether human platelet lysate (HPL) has neurotrophic ability for corneal nerve regeneration. METHODS We measured the neurotrophic factors in human peripheral serum (HPS) and two commercially available HPLs, UltraGRO and PLTMax. In vitro, we compared the growth rates, neuronal differentiation and immunostaining of neuron markers in mouse neuroblastoma cell line (Neuro-2a) and primary culture of mouse trigeminal ganglion cells that were cultivated in different concentrations of fetal bovine serum, HPS and HPL. In vivo, we created corneal wounds on Sprague Dawley rats with a rotating burr and evaluated the effects of topical HPL on wound healing and corneal nerve regeneration by in vivo confocal microscopy and corneal aesthesiometry. RESULTS HPLs had significantly higher concentrations of various neurotrophic factors compared with HPS (p<0.05). In Neuro-2a cells, 3% HPL was better at promoting neuronal growth and differentiation compared with HPS at the same concentration. HPL was also found to have superior neurotrophic effects compared with HPS in primary cultures of mouse trigeminal ganglion cells. In vivo, HPL-treated eyes had better corneal epithelial wound healing rate, nerve regeneration length and corneal touch threshold compared with eyes treated with artificial tears (p<0.05). CONCLUSION HPL has significantly higher concentrations of neurotrophic factors compared with HPS. It showed not only in vitro but also in vivo corneal neurotrophic abilities. Our results suggest that HPL may have a potential role in the treatment of diseases related to corneal nerve damage or degeneration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chin-Te Huang
- Department of Ophthalmology, National Taiwan University Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan.,Department of Ophthalmology, Chung Shan Medical University Hospital, School of Medicine, Chung Shan Medical University, Taichung, Taiwan
| | - Hsiao-Sang Chu
- Department of Ophthalmology, National Taiwan University Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan.,Advanced Ocular Surface and Corneal Nerve Regeneration Center, National Taiwan University Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan.,Graduate Institute of Clinical Medicine, National Taiwan University College of Medicine, Taipei, Taiwan.,Department of Ophthalmology, National Taiwan University College of Medicine, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Kuo-Chi Hung
- Department of Ophthalmology, National Taiwan University Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan.,Department of Ophthalmology, Sinying Hospital, Tainan, Taiwan
| | - Lily Wei Chen
- Department of Ophthalmology, National Taiwan University Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Mei-Yun Chen
- Department of Ophthalmology, National Taiwan University Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Fung-Rong Hu
- Department of Ophthalmology, National Taiwan University Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan.,Department of Ophthalmology, National Taiwan University College of Medicine, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Wei-Li Chen
- Department of Ophthalmology, National Taiwan University Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan .,Advanced Ocular Surface and Corneal Nerve Regeneration Center, National Taiwan University Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan.,Department of Ophthalmology, National Taiwan University College of Medicine, Taipei, Taiwan
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