Spatial distribution of corneal light scattering after corneal collagen crosslinking.

PURPOSE: To assess the spatial distribution and time course of increased corneal light scattering after corneal collagen crosslinking (CXL) with riboflavin and ultraviolet-A irradiation.

SETTING

Umeå University Hospital Eye Clinic, Umeå, Sweden.

DESIGN

Case series.

METHODS

Eyes with keratoconus were examined with Scheimpflug photography before and 1 and 6 months after CXL. Corneal light scattering was quantified throughout the corneal thickness at 8 measurement points 0.0 to 3.0 mm from the central cornea.

RESULTS

The study comprised 11 eyes of 11 patients. Central corneal light scattering increased significantly 1 month after CXL (P<.001). At 6 months, it decreased (P = .002); however, it was still higher than pretreatment values (P<.001). Light scattering at 1 month was more pronounced in the superficial stroma, gradually diminishing to zero at 240 μm depth. It was greater at the corneal center than 1.0 to 3.0 mm from the center. At 6 months, a second peak of light scattering occurred between 240 μm and 340 μm depth. No increased light scattering deeper than 340 μm was seen at either time point.

CONCLUSIONS

Corneal light scattering after CXL showed distinctive spatial and temporal profiles. Analysis of corneal light scattering may give an impression of tissue changes, the depth of the CXL treatment effect, and the corneal response to the treatment. Scheimpflug photography appears to be useful for this purpose.

FINANCIAL DISCLOSURE: No author has a financial or proprietary interest in any material or method mentioned.