Scleral collagen cross linkage in progressive myopia

Abstract

High myopia is often associated with local ectasia and scleral thinning. The progression of myopia depends upon scleral biochemical and biomechanical properties. Scleral thinning is associated with decreased collagen fiber diameter, defective collagen fibrillogenesis, and collagen cross-linking. Reversing these abnormalities may make the sclera tougher and might serve as a treatment option for myopic progression. Collagen cross-linking is a natural process in the cornea and sclera, which makes the structure stiff. Exogenous collagen cross-linkage is artificially induced with the help of external mediators by using light and dark methods. In this systematic review, we discussed existing literature available on the internet on current evidence-based applications of scleral collagen cross-linking (SXL) by using different interventions. In addition, we compared them in tabular form in terms of their technique, mechanisms, cytotoxicity, and the stage of transition from preclinical to clinical development. Furthermore, we discussed the in-vivo technique to evaluate the post-SXL scleral biomechanical property and outcome in the human eye.