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Aerosolization ocular surface microorganisms accumulation effect during non-contact tonometer measurements
Xinyi Shen1, Yi Xu1, Yuee Ye1
1National Clinical Research Center for Ocular Diseases, Eye Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, 325027, China.
BMC Ophthalmology
|September 3, 2024
Summary
Non-contact tonometry (NCT) can aerosolize microorganisms from the ocular surface. These aerosolized ocular surface microorganisms (AOSMs) accumulate in the air, potentially increasing infection transmission risks.
Area of Science:
- Ophthalmology
- Microbiology
- Public Health
Background:
- Non-contact tonometry (NCT) is a common eye examination procedure.
- The potential for aerosolization of microorganisms from the ocular surface during NCT is not well understood.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the aerosolization and accumulation of ocular surface microorganisms (AOSMs) during NCT.
- To determine if NCT contributes to airborne microbial contamination.
Main Methods:
- The study involved 508 participants (740 eyes).
- Microbial air samples were collected during NCT using Air ideal® 3P.
- Matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization time-of-flight mass spectrometry (MALDI-TOF-MS) was used for microorganism identification.
Main Results:
- NCT measurements led to the spread and accumulation of microorganisms, including pathogenic Aerococcus viridans, in the air.
- A dose-dependent accumulation effect of AOSMs was observed with repeated NCT measurements.
Conclusions:
- NCT procedures can generate and spread airborne microorganisms from the ocular surface.
- The accumulation of AOSMs during NCT may pose a risk for bio-aerosol exposure and transmission.
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