The effect of topical doxycycline on corneal neovascularization.

Purpose: To examine the effect of topical doxycycline on human corneal neovascularization (CONV). Materials and methods: Six eyes of six patients with CONV received topical 1% doxycycline four times per day for three weeks and monitored for a total of one year. Ophthalmic evaluations included visual acuity, tonometry, slit-lamp examination, conjunctival swabs, quantification of CONV and photography. Results: CONV either disappeared or was attenuated, shortened and less dense in five of six patients. There were no adverse effects. Conclusion: Topical doxycycline was effective in reducing CONV and healing of the ocular surface.