Effect of medroxyprogesterone and doxycycline on vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) expression and corneal neovascularization in corneal alkali trauma

Ocular chemical trauma is a true emergency in ophthalmology. Chemical trauma on the ocular area may disturb vision, reduce the quality of life, and functional state. Prompt and adequate treatment is needed to prevent further complications, such as a decrease in vision due to corneal neovascularization. Treatment started with immediate eradication of the chemical agent by continuous rinsing and followed by inflammation and epithelial defect control. Medroxyprogesterone and doxycycline are two common treatments used in ocular chemical trauma. We speculate that both medications may influence VEGF expression and corneal neovascularization in corneal alkali trauma. It was demonstrated that medroxyprogesterone and doxycycline reduce the expression of VEGF, hence, reducing corneal neovascularization.