Suppressive effects of indomethacin on thermally induced neovascularization of rabbit corneas.

In 16 rabbits with bilateral corneal burns, indomethacin was administered topically to one eye on each day after the lesion was made to determine the effect of a prostaglandin inhibitor on the corneal neovascular response to experimental thermal burns. Comparison of the two eyes showed a reduction of both hyperemia and neovascularization in indomethacin-treated eyes during the first five days after injury. Histologic observations during this period showed a reduction in polymorphonuclear cell infiltration in the treated corneas. Inhibition of prostaglandin synthesis by indomethacin apparently led to a reduction in the inflammatory response and the subsequent corneal neovascularization.