Purpose: To clarify whether the prolonged presence of perfluorochemicals (PFC) in the vitreous cavity causes oxidative tissue damage and inflammatory response of the retina and, if so, what the process is.
Methods: After three different perfluorochemicals [perfluorodecalin (C10F18), perfluorooctane (C8F18) and Fluosol-DA (corresponding to a 20% emulsion of 70% PFD and 30% perfluorotripropylamine, C9F21N)] had been in the vitreous cavity of rabbits for 2 weeks, lipid peroxide concentration and myeloperoxidase activity in the retina were determined.
Results: Whereas only Fluosol-DA showed significant oxidative damage, the inflammatory activity was significantly increased in all groups.
Conclusion: The increased myeloperoxidase activity and the observed oxidative damage of the retina seem to be the effect of both perfluorochemical-loaded macrophages and inflammatory-induced lipid peroxidation.