Topical insulin shows promise for treating persistent corneal epithelial defects

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Topical insulin appears to be a safe, effective, and affordable treatment option for persistent corneal epithelial defects that are resistant to standard therapies, according to a study.

The retrospective study analyzed 17 eyes from 16 patients with refractory epithelial defects. Neurotrophic keratitis, particularly due to herpetic eye disease, was the most common underlying cause. Patients received topical insulin until the defect healed or persisted for 3 months.

Overall, 77.3% of treated eyes achieved complete healing, with an average recovery time of 31.27 days. Visual acuity significantly improved, and no complications were reported.

Reference
Almeida J, Costa TR, Vivas M, et al. Long-term Results of Topical Insulin Treatment for Persistent Corneal Epithelial Defects. J Ophthalmic Vis Res. 2024;19(4):397-404. doi: 10.18502/jovr.v19i4.13977. PMID: 39917454; PMCID: PMC11795001.