What is the main purpose of topical atropine in corneal ulcer treatment?

What is the main purpose of topical atropine in corneal ulcer treatment?

• A. To reduce swelling
• B. To relieve pain and prevent synechiae
• C. To promote healing
• D. To enhance vision

Answer: (B)

The primary purpose of topical atropine in the treatment of corneal ulcers is to relieve pain and prevent the formation of synechiae. Atropine is an anticholinergic agent that dilates the pupil (mydriasis) and paralyzes the ciliary muscle (cycloplegia), which helps to alleviate the pain associated with corneal ulcers. By reducing the spasm of the ciliary muscle, atropine provides significant relief from discomfort that a patient may experience due to corneal inflammation. Furthermore, the dilation of the pupil and paralysis of the ciliary muscle also serve to prevent synechiae, which are adhesions that can form between the iris and the lens of the eye. This is particularly important in cases where inflammation is present, as the risk of synechiae increases. Therefore, the application of atropine not only addresses pain management but also protects against potential complications that could arise from the ulceration. While some of the other options explore relevant aspects of ocular health, they do not capture the primary therapeutic role of atropine in this context as effectively.

The primary purpose of topical atropine in the treatment of corneal ulcers is to relieve pain and prevent the formation of synechiae. Atropine is an anticholinergic agent that dilates the pupil (mydriasis) and paralyzes the ciliary muscle (cycloplegia), which helps to alleviate the pain associated with corneal ulcers. By reducing the spasm of the ciliary muscle, atropine provides significant relief from discomfort that a patient may experience due to corneal inflammation.

Furthermore, the dilation of the pupil and paralysis of the ciliary muscle also serve to prevent synechiae, which are adhesions that can form between the iris and the lens of the eye. This is particularly important in cases where inflammation is present, as the risk of synechiae increases. Therefore, the application of atropine not only addresses pain management but also protects against potential complications that could arise from the ulceration.

While some of the other options explore relevant aspects of ocular health, they do not capture the primary therapeutic role of atropine in this context as effectively.