Reactive formation of hyaluronic acid in the rabbit corneal alkali burn.

The presence and distribution of reactively formed hyaluronic acid (HA) was assessed in the rabbit cornea following a penetrating alkali burn. The injury was inflicted by applying a round, 5.5 mm, filter paper soaked in 1 N NaOH centrally on the cornea for 60 seconds. Biochemical analysis revealed a significant increase of HA two weeks after injury, a peak concentration after 1 month, and a decrease again at three months. Histochemical analysis revealed the presence of hyaluronic acid in the healing epithelium, in the repopulating keratocytes/fibroblasts, and in the cells forming the retrocorneal membrane. Extensive amounts filled lacunae in the stroma as well as the spaces between collagen lamellae. A slow restoration of normal appearing corneal stroma took place at the periphery. Significant staining for HA in lacunae was present centrally in the wound after three months.