PACK crosslinking for corneal infections

Author: Dr. Victor Derhartunian 11 September 2024

Crosslinking was originally developed for the treatment of keratoconus.
The areas of application have been expanded through continuous research.
It has been discovered that crosslinking is also effective for keratitis.

Origin of PACK-Crosslinking

Crosslinking mainly uses riboflavin (vitamin B2) and UV radiation.
The use of both components has already proven effective in other areas outside of human medicine:

  • Reduce bacteria in swimming pools
  • Reduce bacteria in blood transfusions
  • Minimize microorganisms in drinking water

It has been recognized that riboflavin in combination with UV radiation leads to a reduction in fungi, viruses and bacteria.
The use of CXL was thus extended to corneal infections.

Effect of PACK crosslinking

PACK cross-linking stops the reproduction of bacteria, viruses and fungi – this is achieved by deactivating the genetic material.
The unwanted microorganisms are exposed to oxidative stress.
At the same time, the resistance of the corneal tissue to infections is improved.

Areas of application for PACK-Crosslinking

PACK-Crosslinking can be used for various reasons.
A corneal infection is not always caused exclusively by bacteria – viruses or fungi are often involved.
An antibiotic does not help here.

Sometimes long treatments are carried out – without success.
Many visits to the doctor and frequent use of medication are the result.
If it is still unclear which pathogens are involved in the infection, safe treatment is not possible.
With PACK-CXL, all pathogens are detected in just one treatment.

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Author:

Dr. Victor Derhartunian

Nachdem er sein Handwerk von den beiden Pionieren der Laserchirurgie gelernt hat, gehört Dr. Victor Derhartunian zu den führenden Augenlaser-Chirurgen. Er leitet die Praxis in Wien und kann seine Patienten in fünf Sprachen beraten.