DR. SUCHITRA KUMARI

DR. ANTABHA BANDYOPADHYAY, Dr. Shefa Habib, DR. SUNIL KUMAR

Abstract

Aim:To evaluate efficacy of topical insulin drops in treatment of refractory neurotrophic keratitis(NK).

Methods:8 patients with NK refractory to standard medical treatment selected.Insulin drops(mixing regular insulin in artificial tear with polyethylene glycol & propylene glycol base at conc.1unit/ml) prescribed 4 times daily & BCL applied.Treatment continued until PED or ulcer resolved & tapered accordingly.Primary outcome was complete resolution of PED or ulcer. BCVA obtained and anterior segment photographs taken.

Results:7 of 8 eyes showed complete resolution of NK.one of the patients’ epithelial defect improved significantly although wound did not fully heal.No side-effects were reported during treatment.

Conclusions:Topical insulin may be a simple & effective treatment for refractory NK.This therapy may prove extremely useful due to its low cost and high accessibility. Further study is required to determine the clinical efficacy and side effect profile of insulin drops.

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