Novel autologous platelet gel shows promise in treating severe corneal ulcers
A novel autologous platelet gel (APG) showed encouraging results in promoting corneal healing and improving vision in patients with severe, treatment-resistant ulcers, according to a study.
The APG combines platelet-rich plasma (PRP) with autologous thrombin serum (ATS) and was tested in 10 patients (mean age 60 years) with persistent epithelial defects from various causes.
Each patient received APG as a single overlay or plug under a bandage contact lens, alongside supportive treatments such as lubricants, antibiotics, and PRP drops.
Complete epithelial healing was found in all cases, with a mean recovery time of 10 days. One patient required a second application, but no recurrences or adverse events were observed over an average follow-up of eight months. Visual outcomes also improved, with corrected distance visual acuity increasing from 0.034 to 0.216 LogMAR.
Investigators emphasized that while the findings are encouraging, the small sample size, absence of a control group, and variable follow-up mean results should be interpreted as exploratory. Larger controlled trials are needed to establish the therapy’s safety and efficacy compared with existing options.
Reference
Harouch M, Jihad S, Allou Y, et al. Autologous platelet gel as adjunctive therapy for severe corneal ulcers: a pilot study. Int Ophthalmol. 2025;45(1):379. doi: 10.1007/s10792-025-03776-z. PMID: 40986200.
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