A PERSONALISED APPROACH TO TREATING PATIENTS WITH INFLAMMATORY DISEASES OF THE CORNEA AND EYELIDS

Introduction. Inflammatory conditions affecting the anterior segment of the eye, including keratitis and posterior blepharitis, remain one of the most significant challenges in current ophthalmology due to their high prevalence, tendency to become chronic and recurrent, and the risk of causing permanent morphological and functional abnormalities.

Purpose. To investigate the therapeutic potential of 1 % low-molecular-weight sodium hyaluronate administered by injection in patients with inflammatory conditions affecting the anterior ocular surface.

Materials and methods. A total of 40 patients (55 eyes) with acute anterior segment inflammation were included. The cohort comprised individuals with combined keratitis and posterior blepharitis, as well as patients with isolated posterior blepharitis accompanied by evaporative dry eye. All participants received conventional anti-inflammatory therapy. In selected cases, treatment was supplemented with topical hyaluronate followed by subconjunctival and subcutaneous administration after reduction of acute inflammation. Clinical evaluation included assessment of corneal epithelial integrity, eyelid and meibomian gland function, and tear film characteristics over a 30-day observation period.

Results. The addition of low-molecular-weight sodium hyaluronate contributed to more rapid epithelial recovery and earlier resolution of inflammatory signs. Improvement in meibomian gland performance was associated with better tear film stability and normalization of its lipid component. In patients with advanced gland dysfunction, recovery was less pronounced and required repeated interventions.

Conclusion. The findings indicate that injectable sodium hyaluronate may enhance regenerative processes and improve clinical outcomes in ocular surface inflammation. Its use can be considered as part of a comprehensive treatment strategy, with repeated courses justified in cases with persistent or recurrent dysfunction.

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