Hosam Sheha
Ocular Surface Research & Education Foundation, USA
Posters & Accepted Abstracts: Insights in Ophthalmology
Purpose: To evaluate the effectiveness of self-retained cryopreserved amniotic membrane after debridement in treating epithelial basement membrane dystrophy (EBMD). Methods: This case series includes seven eyes of five consecutive patients with a history of dry eye disease. Examination revealed irregular corneal epithelium with delayed fluorescein staining, suspecting EBMD. The clinical diagnosis was confirmed by the screwdriver test in which the corneal epithelium blisters easily when a Weck-Cel® sponge was pressed and gently twisted against the suspected areas. A self-retained amniotic membrane (Prokera®, Bio-Tissue, Inc., Miami, Florida, USA) was placed after epithelial debridement. Results: Complete epithelialization of the defects created by debridement was noted in all seven eyes when Prokera® was removed at 3–7 days after placement. For a minimum of six months follow-up, all eyes were asymptomatic and regained a smooth and stable corneal epithelium. Best-corrected visual acuity was improved to 20/20 in five eyes and 20/30 in the remaining two eyes. Conclusion: Placement of self-retained cryopreserved amniotic membrane following debridement appears effective in treating EBMD by promoting re-epithelialization and restoring ocular surface regularity.