The Effect of Latanoprost on Central Corneal Thickness

Abstract

Abstract: : Purpose: Latanoprost is a potent ocular hypotensive agent used in the treatment of glaucoma. A reduction in central corneal thickness (CCT) can lead to an under–estimation of intraocular pressure (IOP) by Goldman applanation tonometry and vice versa. The aim of this study was to determine whether latanoprost has an effect on CCT. Methods: Patients, with newly diagnosed glaucoma, underwent measurement of CCT using an ultrasound pachymeter (Model 885, Humphrey Systems Inc.) both immediately prior to the commencement of treatment with latanoprost 0.005% nocte (Pfizer Ltd) and after two months of latanoprost treatment. Patients were excluded if there was evidence of corneal pathology, previous corneal or intraocular surgery, or concurrent or recent (within 3 months) topical treatment. Statistical analysis was performed using the paired samples t–test. Results: 52 eyes were assessed. The mean CCT prior to commencement of latanoprost treatment was 542.1µm. The mean CCT after 2 months of treatment with latanoprost was 538.8µm. This was not a statistically significant difference. Conclusions: Latanoprost does not cause a change in CCT after two months of topical treatment. This is in contrast to previous studies which have suggested that latanoprost does cause a statistically significant reduction in CCT (ARVO 2003: abstracts 4232, 4419). The reduction in IOP caused by topical latanoprost is therefore a real reduction in IOP rather than an apparent reduction in IOP secondary to a change in CCT.

Keywords: pharmacology • cornea: clinical science • intraocular pressure