Corticosteroids have been utilized in ophthalmology since the 1950s for the control of ocular inflammation. Through their interference with phospholipase A2, they are able to inhibit the arachidonic acid cascade and reduce the inflammatory response. Corticosteroids can be delivered systemically and/or topically, and currently there are approximately ten ophthalmic corticosteroid preparations available. When used following cataract surgery, corticosteroids have been demonstrated to prevent inflammation, hasten recovery of visual acuity, and decrease postoperative pain.
read more