Intraocular penetration of amikacin. Iris binding and bioavailability
R. A. Eiferman and J. I. Stagner
The penetration of amikacin sulfate into the anterior chamber of the human
eye was determined by radioimmunoassay. Bactericidal concentrations of
amikacin were not achieved by topical or intravenous administration.
Subconjunctival injection did not produce consistent bactericidal
concentration of amikacin in aqueous humor. Poor corneal penetration and
subsequent tight binding to iris pigment are responsible for these
observations. Tissue or pigment binding is adsorptive, nonspecific, and
readily reversible. Amikacin released after being bound retains its
bactericidal potency.
