Numerical simulation of aqueous humor flow: From healthy to pathologic situations

Abstract

A mathematical model which simulates drug delivery through the cornea, from a therapeutic lens to the anterior chamber of the eye, is proposed. The model consists of three coupled systems of partial differential equations linked by interface conditions: drug diffusion in the therapeutic lens; diffusion and metabolic consumption in the cornea; diffusion, convection and metabolic consumption in the anterior chamber of the eye. The dependence of intraocular pressure on the obstruction of the trabecular mesh and the production rate of aqueous humor by the ciliary body is modeled. The therapeutic effects of drugs that act on the trabecular mesh or on the ciliary body are analysed. Comparisons between topical administration and drug delivery from a therapeutic lens are included.