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Updated: Aug 4, 2026
07:35
A Non-invasive Way to Isolate and Phenotype Cells from the Conjunctiva
Published on: July 5, 2017
[Prevalance of conjunctival concretions]
Summary
Conjunctival concretions are common, affecting 39.6% of patients in a general ophthalmology clinic. Most cases are asymptomatic, with only 6% experiencing symptoms, and a notable association with Meibomian gland dysfunction.
Area of Science:
- Ophthalmology
- Ocular Surface Disease
- Epidemiology
Context:
- Conjunctival concretions, also known as eye stones, are deposits that form on the conjunctiva.
- Their prevalence and associated factors in a general patient population are not well-established.
- This study investigates conjunctival concretions in a diverse cohort at a university hospital's ophthalmology department.
Purpose:
- To determine the prevalence of conjunctival concretions in a random cohort of patients.
- To analyze the characteristics of these concretions, including symptoms, localization, and structure.
- To explore the relationship between conjunctival concretions, age, Meibomian gland dysfunction, and chronic meibomitis.
Summary:
- Conjunctival concretions were present in 39.6% of the 500-patient cohort.
- Superficial, hard, and single deposits were most common.
- Concretions were found from age 20, peaking between 30-80 years.
- Only 6% of patients with concretions were symptomatic.
- Meibomian gland dysfunction or chronic meibomitis was detected in 30.3% of affected patients.
Impact:
- Establishes a high prevalence of conjunctival concretions in a general ophthalmology setting.
- Highlights the predominantly asymptomatic nature of these deposits.
- Reveals a significant association with Meibomian gland dysfunction, suggesting a link to ocular surface health.
- Provides data on the demographic and clinical characteristics of conjunctival concretions.
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