EYE – RETINAL INJURY-10.1016/j.heliyon.2023.e20671Scientific Research

Abstract:

Objective: To investigate the feasibility and effectiveness of hydrogen in the treatment of retinitis pigmentosa (RP) patients through the drinking of hydrogen-rich water (HRW).

Methods: RP patients clinically diagnosed in our hospital were selected and given HRW for drinking at 400-500 ml twice a day for four consecutive weeks. Changes in best corrected visual acuity (BCVA), intraocular pressure, the retinal thickness, and choroidal thickness, as well as the amplitude and peak time of visual electrophysiological examinations before and after HRW drinking were observed. Data were statistically analyzed.

Results: In total, 24 eyes of 13 patients with RP (3 males and 10 females aged-27-65 years old, were enrolled in the study. The BCVA after HRW drinking was 0.34 ± 0.25, which was statistically improved compared with that before (P 0.05). The amplitudes of the b-wave in Dark-adaptation 0.01 response, a and b waves in Dark-adaptation 3.0 response, the Dark-adaptation Ops total wave, a and b waves in Light-adaptation 3.0 response, and the Light-adaptation Flicker response of electroretinogram (ERG) were significantly higher than those before HRW drinking (all P < 0.05). The corresponding peak times iwere mproved to some extent compared to those before HRW consumption (all P 0.05), while the data from the 15′ PVEP were statistically different (P 0.05).

Conclusion: Short-term HRW drinking slightly improved visual function in patients with primary RP, whereas no significant improvement was found in the thickness of the retina and choroid. Keywords: Choroid; Electrophysiology; Hydrogen-rich water; Retina; Retinitis pigmentosa.