Effect of Aging on Corneal Biomechanical Parameters Using the Ocular Response Analyzer

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Abstract
Purpose: To assess the effect of aging on corneal biomechanical parameters in a normal population. Methods: We prospectively examined 204 normal eyes of 204 healthy Japanese volunteers (68 men, 136 women; mean age 46.7±19.4 years [range: 19 to 89 years]). Corneal hysteresis, corneal resistance factor, corneal-compensated intraocular pressure (IOP cc ), and Goldmann-correlated intraocular pressure (IOP G ) were qualitatively assessed using a Reichert Ocular Response Analyzer. Central corneal thickness was measured using an ultrasound pachymeter. This measurement was performed 3 times, and the mean value obtained was used for statistical analysis. The relationships between patient age and corneal biomechanical parameters, or age and intraocular pressure (IOP), were investigated. Results: Mean corneal hysteresis and corneal resistance factor were 10.1±1.5 mmHg and 10.1±1.6 mmHg, respectively. Mean central corneal thickness was 539.1±30.9 µm. A weak, but significant, negative correlation was found between age and corneal hysteresis (Pearson's correlation coefficient r=−0.17, P =.02) and corneal resistance factor (r=−0.18 P =.01). On the other hand, no significant correlation was found between age and central corneal thickness (r=−0.06, P =.41), age and IOP cc (r=−0.02, P =.82), or age and IOP G (r=−0.11, P =.11). Conclusions: Corneal biomechanical parameters are significantly decreased by aging without significant changes in central corneal thickness or IOP, suggesting that age-related structural changes resulting from collagen cross-linking may lead to a reduction of corneal biomechanical variables independent of central corneal thickness or IOP. [ J Refract Surg . 2009;25:888–893.]

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