[Irradiation of cornea with ultraviolet light and riboflavin administration as a new treatment for erosive corneal processes, preliminary results in four patients].

BACKGROUND: Corneal melting is a serious condition and in many cases maybe managed only by surgery. UV-radiation with Riboflavin is a new method that may stop the melting process of the cornea.

PATIENTS AND METHOD: Four patients suffering from melting ulcera of the cornea of various origin underwent a single UV-radiation. Two ultraviolet diodes were used emitting light with an wavelength of 370 nm with an energy of 2.5 mW/cm2. The radiation time was 30 minutes. Before he radiation was performed 2-3 drops of 0.11% Riboflavinsolution were applied to the cornea. The treatment area was 6-7 mm in diameter.

RESULTS: After the treatment in three of the four patients the melting process of the cornea stopped. At least temporarily, a surgical procedure could be delayed.

CONCLUSION: Because of the absence of any side-effects in serious cases the method is recommended prior to surgery.