Abstract

AIM To report the outcome of a series of patients with stem cell deficiency who underwent allo-limbal transplantation and to describe a technique for this procedure.

METHODS Six consecutive patients underwent allo-limbal stem cell transplantation. The primary diagnosis included alkali burn (n=2), trachoma (n=1), chronic rosacea blepharitis and keratoconjunctivitis (n=1), aniridia (n=1), and Stevens–Johnson syndrome (n=1). The limbal rim consisted of peripheral cornea and perilimbal sclera. FK-506 was used postoperatively for immunosuppression.

RESULTS The length of follow up ranged from 3 to 24 months (mean follow up 11.8 (SD 9.3) months). The outcome was considered satisfactory in five of six cases. The corneal surface was completely epithelialised within 2 weeks, and there was a substantial improvement in vision and symptoms. One patient had recurrent epithelial defects related to eyelid abnormalities. No side effects associated with systemic immunosuppression were noted.

CONCLUSION Allo-limbal transplantation, with systemic immunosuppression with FK-506 is useful in reconstruction of the ocular surface with improvement in vision in patients with severe stem cell deficiency.