Corneal abrasions in space: current therapeutics and future directions

The evaluation and management of corneal penetrating and perforating injuries during long-duration spaceflight

“…Severe or poorly managed corneal abrasions, ulcers, and thermal burns are subject to infections that can progress to corneal perforations [4]. In the setting of microgravity, airborne particulates remain suspended (rather than falling to the floor on Earth) and can enter crewmembers' eyes [3]. With NASA's aim to return to the Moon and to travel to Mars, celestial debris will be an additional risk to ocular health.…”

“…2 Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, University of Michigan Kellogg Eye Center, Ann Arbor, MI, USA. 3 KBR, Houston, TX, USA. 4 South Shore Eye Center, League City, TX, USA.…”

“…Fortunately, to date none of the prior reported injuries have led to corneal perforation. However, these ocular scenarios emphasize the critical importance of addressing corneal injuries before escalation to perforations, especially with the commercialization of spaceflight [2,3]. In this paper, we will discuss the use of onboard diagnostic tools and potential management modalities for the treatment of penetrating or perforating injuries to the cornea in spaceflight with current medications aboard the ISS.…”