Benzalkonium Chloride for Experimental Dry Eye Induction in a Rabbit Model

Purpose: This study compared the clinical parameters and histological findings according to benzalkonium chloride concentration (BAC; 0.05%, 0.1%, 0.2%) for inducing experimental dry eye (EDE) in a rabbit model.Methods: Rabbits were divided into four groups BAC concentration: untreated group, 0.2% BAC. was instilled topically both eyes of rabbits twice daily until they euthanized after 14 days. Tear volume, tear break-up time (TBUT), corneal fluorescein staining score (CFS) measured 0, 3, 5, 7, days treatment. After excising tissues on day 14, conjunctival goblet cell density epithelial apoptosis quantified.Results: The volume TBUT lower CFS higher than baseline values 10, 5 0.05, 0.1, groups, respectively (all p < 0.05). At days, group showed more significant aggravation all parameters, 0.1% had 0.05) 0.05% group. In significantly 0.01). Between-group differences observed 0.01).Conclusions: Instilling induced EDE groups. Although cannot be used severe model, it is useful model short time.