CORNEAL ALTERATION IN EYES WITH PSEUDOEXFOLIATION SYNDROME

Background: Pseudoexfoliation syndrome (PXS) is an age-related systemic microfibrillopathy, caused by gradual deposition of extracellular grey and white material over various tissues .In pseudoexfoliation eyes, corneal endothelial changes are noted.Objective of Our study was to find corneal alterations among patients of Pseudoexfoliation syndrome of Kashmir region. Material And Methods:After obtaining the ethical clearance from the institutional ethical committee,150 patients withPseudoexfoliation were included in our Descriptive(Observational )study. Thorough ocular evaluation was done and corneal changes were noted including corneal endothelial cell density and Central corneal thickness using NON CONTACT specular microscope .Appropriate statistical tests were used for analyzing data. Results:Pseudoexfoliation was predominantly seen in males . Mean Central corneal thickness in Pseudoexfoliation with glaucoma eyes was(509.6+13.73μ) which was lower when compared with mean central corneal thickness in Pseudoexfoliation without glaucoma eyes (523.5+17.15 μ). The results when statistically analyzed were found to be significant. Also corneal endothelial cell density (2304 303 cells / mm2) was lower in pseudoexfoliative eyes. Percentage of Hexagonal cells was 48.0 9.8 (%) and the CV was 38.3 5.8 showing polymegathism and pleomorphism in these cells Conclusion: Qualitative and Quantitative modifications in endothelial cells of eyes with PEX, particularly when IOP is high which may increase the risk of corneal decompensation after intraocular surgeries. In patients with PXG,evaluation of Corneal endothelial cell density and central corneal thickness should be done as the risk of underestimation of intra ocular pressure is high.