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Retinal Manifestations in High Altitude
Meenu Dangi1, Arnab Sadhukhan2, Poninder Kumar1
1Department of Ophthalmology, Command Hospital Western Command, Chandimandir, India.
High Altitude Medicine & Biology
|August 1, 2023
Summary
High altitude retinopathy and vascular occlusions are risks for security personnel due to hypobaric hypoxia. Increased hematocrit and hyperhomocysteinemia contribute to these conditions.
Area of Science:
- Ophthalmology
- Altitude Medicine
- Vascular Biology
Background:
- High altitude environments pose unique physiological challenges.
- Retinal manifestations can occur due to these environmental stressors.
- Understanding these changes is crucial for personnel health.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate high altitude (HA)-related retinal manifestations.
- To characterize the mechanisms of retinopathy in security personnel.
- To offer insights into ocular health at high altitudes.
Main Methods:
- A multicentric, prospective observational study.
- 54 security personnel from high altitude areas were studied over 1 year.
- Coagulation profiles were assessed in cases of vascular occlusion.
Main Results:
- 28 out of 54 patients exhibited high altitude retinopathy.
- Diagnoses included various retinal vascular occlusions, central serous chorioretinopathy, and others.
- Elevated hematocrit and hyperhomocysteinemia were noted in vascular occlusions.
Conclusions:
- Hypobaric hypoxia at high altitudes increases the risk of retinopathy and vascular occlusions.
- Increased hematocrit and hyperhomocysteinemia are potential contributing factors.
- Further research into preventative measures and treatments is warranted.
