Trace element study and the effects of experimental treatment on alkali-burned cornea

Study on trace element and the effect of both combined treatment and medroxyprogesterone subconjunctival injection on alkaliburned cornea was made. Cu, Zn, Ca and Mg in the cornea were determined with an atomic absorption spectrophotometer before and after burning. The concentration of all elements in the burned corneas were increased significantly, especially in the first two weeks, and was in accordance with the degree of the corneal ulceration. These suggested that the trace elements take a role in the pathological processes.