Interaction of ultraviolet light with the cornea: clinical implications for corneal crosslinking

J Cataract Refract Surg. 2015 Feb;41(2):446-59. doi: 10.1016/j.jcrs.2014.12.013. Epub 2014 Dec 23.

Abstract

Understanding ultraviolet (UV) interaction with the human corneal tissue is of interest among corneal specialists given the widespread application of corneal crosslinking. This article reviews the current knowledge of light interaction with the cornea in the UV wavelength range. It also uses a novel experimental study to illustrate the role of 2 important corneal properties that have not yet been clarified: the epithelial contribution to overall UVA corneal absorbance and the regional anisotropy of UVA light transmittance. Finally, it presents the most recent insights into how different methods of UVA light irradiation and corneal soaking with riboflavin influence the outcome of corneal crosslinking.

Financial disclosure: No author has a financial or proprietary interest in any material or method mentioned.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Anisotropy
  • Collagen / metabolism
  • Cornea / drug effects
  • Cornea / metabolism
  • Cornea / radiation effects*
  • Cross-Linking Reagents*
  • Epithelium, Corneal
  • Humans
  • Photosensitizing Agents / therapeutic use
  • Riboflavin / therapeutic use
  • Ultraviolet Rays*

Substances

  • Cross-Linking Reagents
  • Photosensitizing Agents
  • Collagen
  • Riboflavin