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Wildfire Smoke Induces Eye Surface Inflammation and Tear Film Changes in a Human Experimental Model
Sukanya Jaiswal1, Blanka Golebiowski1, Meagan Porter2
1School of Optometry and Vision Science, University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW, Australia.
Translational Vision Science & Technology
|September 9, 2025
Summary
Exposure to wildfire smoke significantly worsens eye irritation and dryness, increasing ocular surface inflammation. This research highlights the adverse effects of smoke on eye health and suggests potential therapeutic avenues.
Area of Science:
- Ophthalmology and Environmental Health
- Toxicology and Ocular Surface Disease
Background:
- Wildfire smoke contains particulate matter and inflammatory mediators.
- Ocular surface exposure to environmental pollutants can cause symptoms and signs of disease.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the short-term impact of vegetation burn smoke on ocular surface symptoms and signs.
- To analyze tear cytokine levels following smoke exposure.
Main Methods:
- Participants were exposed to smoke from burnt woody bushfuels in a controlled laboratory setting.
- Ocular surface measurements and tear collection for interleukin-1β analysis were performed pre- and post-exposure.
- Statistical analysis included paired t tests, Wilcoxon signed rank tests, and Spearman's correlation.
Main Results:
- Exposure to particulate matter (1903 µg/m³) significantly increased ocular symptoms, ocular surface staining, and redness.
- Tear breakup time decreased, and tear interleukin-1β levels increased, indicating ocular surface inflammation.
- Bulbar conjunctival redness correlated with dryness symptoms.
Conclusions:
- Short-term exposure to wildfire smoke adversely affects the ocular surface, inducing symptoms and signs of inflammation.
- Findings underscore the need for further research into anti-inflammatory therapies to mitigate smoke-induced ocular surface damage.
