Role of Topical Ascorbic Acid in Management of Refractory Corneal Ulcer

Ascorbic acid, a water soluble vitamin, helps in collagen assembly, synthesis of neurotransmitters, has immune functions and also acts as a major antioxidant in the body. Refractory corneal ulcer is a challenging situation faced by every ophthalmologist in developing countries. Available treatment options for refractory corneal ulcer are bandage contact lens, grid keratotomy, therapeutic penetrating keratoplasty, amniotic membrane transplantation, nerve growth factors, aprotinin [proteases inhibitor]. These treatment options are costly and require expertise in preparation and use. Topical ascorbic acid has been known to have good results in caustic injury of cornea and in free radical damage after eximer laser surgery. This makes it a potential cost-effective candidate to be studied as an alternative in addition to conservative treatment for treating refractory corneal ulcer. This study aims to study the role of topical ascorbic acid in treatment of refractory corneal ulcers.