The role of corneal innervation in LASIK-induced neuropathic dry eye.

Abstract

Almost half the patients who undergo laser in situ keratomileusis (LASIK) experience dry eye following the procedure. However, the etiology of LASIK-induced dry eye is unclear. The purpose of this review is to examine and summarize the current evidence for the etiology of LASIK-induced dry eye, with a focus on ocular surface sensitivity and corneal innervation. Evidence suggests that the alteration of corneal nerves after LASIK is the most likely cause of the subjective symptoms of LASIK-induced dry eye, even though corneal sensitivity and the clinical indicators of dry eye return to apparently normal values within a year due to the partial recovery of the corneal nerve plexus. The hypothesis is explored that dry eye symptoms following LASIK may result from abnormal sensation due to LASIK-induced corneal neuropathy. Other factors, such as alterations in conjunctival goblet cell density, might also contribute to the symptoms and signs of LASIK-induced dry eye. Inter-relationships between nerve morphology, tear neuropeptide levels and dry eye require further investigation. A better understanding of this phenomenon may result in improved management of post-LASIK dry eye.

• Authors: Cecilia Chao, Blanka Golebiowski, Fiona Stapleton
• Journal: The ocular surface (Ocul Surf) Vol. 12 Issue 1 Pg. 32-45 (Jan 2014) ISSN: 1937-5913 [Electronic] United States
• PMID: 24439045 (Publication Type: Journal Article, Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't, Review)
• Copyright: Copyright © 2014 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Topics

• Cornea (innervation, physiology, surgery)
• Dry Eye Syndromes (etiology, physiopathology)
• Humans
• Keratomileusis, Laser In Situ (adverse effects)
• Peripheral Nervous System Diseases (etiology, physiopathology)