Posters

Toxicity of povidone iodine on the ocular surface in rabbits

Poster Details

First Author: S.Kim SOUTH KOREA

Co Author(s):    H. Kim              

Abstract Details

Purpose:

We evaluated the toxicity of 5% (w/v) povidone iodine applied to the ocular surface of rabbits for various times.

Setting:

Experimental prospective animal study.

Methods:

Fifteen white rabbits were divided into four groups; these were a control group and three test groups in which the ocular surface was exposed to PI for different times. In the control group, phosphate-buffered saline (PBS) was applied once, for 10 mins. In the PI groups, 5% (w/v) PI was topically administered (once) for 1 min, 3 mins, and 10 mins, and the animals were observed for 7 days. The Schirmer test, Rose Bengal staining, and conjunctival impression cytology, were performed on days 0, 3, and 7. After day 7, the upper conjunctiva were evaluated by light and electron microscopy. Immunofluorescence staining was also performed to detect mucin 5AC (MUC5AC).

Results:

The decrease in goblet cell density (GCD) and histopathological changes were more prominent in the 5% (w/v) PI groups than the control group (P<0.05). Moreover, these changes were more noticeable when PI was applied for 3 and 10 mins rather than 1 min (both P values <0.05). Reductions in MUC5AC levels, and histopathological and ultrastructural changes in the conjunctiva, were more prominent in test groups exposed to PI for longer times.

Conclusions:

PI damaged the ocular surface in a time-dependent manner. Therefore, use of PI may be a major reason for development of dry eye after ophthalmic surgery. FINANCIAL INTEREST: NONE