Application of HeberFERON® as an adjuvant treatment of primary pterygium
Keywords:
pterygium; corneal degeneration; recurrence; angiogenesis; HeberFERON®.Abstract
Introduction: Pterygium is an inflammatory and degenerative process that affects the sclerocorneal limbus, characterized by the abnormal growth of elastic conjunctival tissue over the cornea. It presents as an aesthetically displeasing, progressively growing lesion that, in advanced stages, can impair vision.
It is classified among non-involutional degenerations or benign epithelial corneal growths. Its worldwide prevalence varies significantly, ranging from 1.1% to 53%, depending on geographic latitude and sun exposure. In Cuba, a prevalence of up to 17.3% has been reported. Recurrence following surgical intervention is one of its most feared complications.
Objective: To determine the efficacy and safety of HeberFERON® eye drops as an adjuvant treatment after primary pterygium excision.
Methods: A descriptive, prospective, and longitudinal study was conducted at the Cuban Institute of Ophthalmology “Ramón Pando Ferrer” in Havana, from January 2021 to December 2023.
Results: The sample included 27 patients (32 eyes), with a predominance of males (66.2%) and more than half being over 50 years of age. The majority (81.5%) had white skin. Grade II pterygium (corneal invasion of 3-4 mm) was the most common, accounting for 65.5%. At six months, pterygium recurrence was minimal, and at 12 months, no recurrence was observed in 96.8% of patients.
Conclusions: HeberFERON® eye drops reduced pterygium recurrence after excision and conjunctival autograft, suggesting that this combined treatment is effective and safe.
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