Steroid-Induced Ocular Hypertension in the Rabbit: A Model Using Subconjunctival Injections

Topical application of glucocorticoids in rabbit eyes has been used extensively in the study of steroid-induced ocular hypertension. Herein, we report no difference in intraocular pressure (IOP) between rabbits treated with topically applied dexamethasone and those receiving a vehicle placebo. In order to develop an alternative model, we have studied the effects on IOP of three subconjunctivally injected steroids: betamethasone, cortisone, and triamcinolone. All three produced elevations in IOP above controls and the most consistent elevation was observed with triamcinolone. Previously, a wide range of changes in IOP have been regarded as significant in studies using the topical mode. Our findings suggest that subconjunctival injections of steroids in rabbits are a viable alternative to topical application and may prove to provide a more consistent and reproducible model for the study of steroid-induced ocular hypertension.