[Microdiathermocoagulation in the treatment of herpetic keratitis].

The authors analyze the efficacy of microdiathermocoagulation (MDC) in 126 patients with herpetic keratitis. Combined use of MDC and soft contact highly hydrophilic lenses preimpregnated with poludan, an interferon inductor solution, has helped reduce almost twofold the mean period of treatment of 80 patients with dendritic keratitis as compared to idoxuridine monotherapy. The study has shown the advantages of a soft contact lens over ointment dressing prescribed after such microsurgical manipulations to patients with superficial herpetic keratitis. A special microelectrode scarifier is suggested. The efficacy of MDC in the treatment of herpetic stromal keratitis with ulceration has been demonstrated, as well as in the management of superinfection manifestations (purulent ulcer, abscess of the cornea). The technique and the results of MDC are discussed and compared to mechanical abrasion and argon laser coagulation in herpetic keratitis.