PEDIATRIC CORNEAL COLLAGEN CROSS-LINKING: A CONCISE REVIEW ON DIFFERENT TECHNIQUES

Authors : Ata Baytaroğlu, Suzan Doğruya

Pages : 239-244

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Publication Date : 2024-06-30

Article Type : Review Paper

Abstract :Objective: Since the first application of corneal collagen cross-linking (CXL) nearly 20 years ago, the technique has been modified and improved by many clinicians. Pediatric patients in particular are an important population focus for this treatment modality due to their susceptibility to rapid progression and irreversible damage. The standard CXL procedure has been updated to include transepithelial (TCXL), accelerated (ACXL), iontophoretic (ICXL) and synthesis of these approaches (ATCXL). In this review, we aimed to examine the current literature and determine the most effective and safe treatment method for the pediatric patient population. Methods: The results found in Medline via PubMed using the keywords \"keratoconus, pediatric keratoconus, corneal collagen cross-linking, pediatric corneal collagen cross-linking, pediatric cross-linking\" in English language were reviewed. In addition to those listed in the search engine, relevant citations obtained from the literature search were also included. Retrospective and prospective articles with a follow-up period of at least 1 year were analyzed as part of the review. Results: In our review, 18 prospective and 14 retrospective studies were analyzed. Eight of these studies were comparative and the follow-up period of all studies ranged between 1-5 years. The age distribution of all patients was between 9-18 years and CXL modalities were compared according to Kmax change and sustainability and presented in tables. Conclusion: Although a consensus on a gold standard has not yet been reached, an increasing number of studies are being reported in favor of new techniques; however, the SCXL-Dresden protocol is still the safest and most effective treatment option.
Keywords : pediatrik, kolajen çapraz bağlama, keratokonus, kornea