Treatment of Recurrent Corneal Epithelial Defect by Autologous Serum Eye Drop

Abstract Background: The aim of the present study was to evaluate the efficacy of autologous serum eye drop in treatment of recurrent corneal epithelial defect. Materials and Methods: Fourteen patients with recurrent corneal epithelial defect were studied. Autologous serum was prepared from the patients and diluted in 20% normal saline. The patients were instructed to use the autologous serum every six hours. Patients were followed for a mean period of 18 months. Results: Four males (28.6%) and 10 females (71.4%) entered the study. Four patients stopped the treatment after three months with complete satisfaction from treatment. Patients reported a reduction in frequency and severity of attacks 4.6±2 weeks after the start of treatment. The mean number of attacks before the procedure was 7.6±0.9 per year which was reduced to 2.2±0.9 per year after treatment (p < 0.001). The main side effects in patients were eye pruritus and redness which were well tolerated by patients. Conclusion: Autologous serum application seems to be a safe and effective method to treat recurrent corneal epithelial defect.