Corneal neovascularization

Corneal neovascularization
Classification and external resources
ICD-10	H16.4

Corneal neovascularization is the excessive ingrowth of blood vessels from the limbal vascular plexus into the cornea, caused by deprivation of oxygen from the air.

Etiology

One of the most common cause of corneal neovascularization is contact lens wear, especially those made with older hydrogel contact lens materials such as HEMA (2-hydroxy-ethyl methacrylate) for both daily and extended wear. Such older hydrogel materials have a relatively low oxygen transmissibility so the cornea ends up being starved of oxygen hence the response of the ingress of blood capillaries into the clear cornea to satisfy that oxygen demand.

Treatment

Modern rigid gas permeable and silicon hydrogel contact lenses have a much higher level of oxygen transmissibility, making them effective alternatives to help prevent corneal neovascularization.

Complications

In advanced stages, corneal neovascularization can threaten eyesight, which is why eye routine (annual) exams are recommended for contact lens patients.

Research

Reduction of neovascularization has been achieved in rats by the topical instillation of commercially available triamcinolone and doxycycline.

Some evidence exists to suggest that the Angiotensin II receptor blocker drug Telmisartan will prevent corneal neovascularization.

External links

• Corneal Neovascularization
• Oxygen Transmissibility