Development of TWO HD Vapor Exposure Techniques in a Rabbit Ocular Model: A Pilot Study

摘要

This pilot study investigated the feasibility of two different vapor models to yield additional insight into HD-induced ocular injury. Eight female New Zealand white rabbits (2.0-2.4 kg) were divided into 2 groups. Rabbits were exposed to HD vapor (estimated vapor density, 1.4 gm/m3) ranging from 30 seconds to 4 minutes. Four rabbits were exposed to 10 microliters neat HD instilled into a vapor cap (VC) for a corneal only exposure, while the second group received 30 microliters neat HD instilled into a lavage cap (LC) for a whole eye exposure. HD-exposed eyes of all animals received Artificial Tears three times daily for 4 weeks following exposure. Rabbit eyes were evaluated and scored weekly for 4 weeks, then at 12 and 16 weeks using Pachymetry (corneal thickness) and modified ocular severity scoring (MOSS). In both models, damage was acutely and chronically debilitating and was dependent on duration of exposure (longer duration demonstrated greater damage) and method of exposure (VC demonstrated greater damage). This pilot study demonstrated a new model for HD-induced injury that is easy, realistic, reproducible and measurable.