Corneal sensitivity changes following cross-linking for progressive lower stage keratoconus

PURPOSE: To evaluate corneal sensitivity changes following corneal cross-linking (CXL) in patients with progressive lower stage keratoconus. PATIENTS AND METHODS: Thirty eight eyes of 19 patients (11 women, 8 men) were included in a prospective, nonrandomized clinical study. Mean patient age was 22 years (range, 18-26 years). Inclusion criteria were low stage bilateral progressive keratoconus, transparent cornea and thinnest corneal thickness ≥ 440 µm. Using the Cochet-Bonnet esthesiometer central corneal sensitivity was measured preoperatively, after 7 days, and once a month after surgery until recovery of the baseline preoperative level. Normal levels of central corneal sensitivity were considered above 40mm. RESULTS: Corneal sensitivity gradually returned to preoperative levels in all treated eyes. Mean central corneal sensitivity was 52.2, 24.0, 38.2, 42.5, 50.0, and 52.5 mm before surgery, at 7 days, and at 1, 2, 3 and 4 months after surgery, respectively. Normal levels of corneal sensation, but not baseline preoperative levels, were noted 2 months after surgery. Preoperative levels were observed 3 months after surgery. CONCLUSION: Our results suggest that after CXL for progressive lower stage keratoconus, central corneal sensitivity is decreased for as long as 3 months.