Journal of Medical & Surgical Pathology
Open Access

Abstract

Therapeutic Effects of Extracts from Spirulina platensis versus Bevacizumab on Inflammation-Associated Corneal Neovascularization

Amany Abd El-Fattah El-Shazly, Asmaa Ibrahim Ahmed, Yasser Abdelmageuid Elzankalony and Walid Mohamed Abd El Raouf El-Zawahry

Aim: The aim of this work was to study histological and immunohistochemical changes resulting from corneal alkali burn and to assess these changes after treatment with either polysaccharide extract from Spirulina platensis (PSP) or Bevacizumab.
Methods: Alkali burn was induced in corneas by direct application of a filter paper ring (2.5 mm diameter) saturated with 1 N NaOH and applied to the center of the rat corneas for 30 seconds. PSP (extracted from dry powder of Spirulina platensis) and avastin were administered topically on the corneas 4 times daily for 7 days starting 7 days after induction of corneal alkali burn. The therapeutic effects of PSP and avastin were evaluated daily using slit-lamp. At the end of the therapy, corneas were harvested for H and E staining, Masson trichrome staining, immunohistochemical study for assessment of inflammation and corneal neovascularization (CorNV).
Results: Topical application of either PSP extract or Avastin had significant therapeutic effects on corneal injuries induced by alkali burn. This was demonstrated by decreasing the CorNV, total and differential corneal thickness and inflammatory cellular responses. They increased the epithelial thickness. PSP showed better results than Avastin in this regards.
Conclusion: The naturally occurring Spirulina platensis (PSP) is more cost effective in treatment of corneal neovascularization and decrease inflammation and fibroblast activity in a rat model of corneal neovascularization induced by alkali burn as compared to Avastin.