Intraocular Pressure Measurement Variability Associated With Face Mask Use

Area of Science:

• Ophthalmology
• Glaucoma Research
• Public Health Measures

Background:

• Intraocular pressure (IOP) is a critical, manageable factor in glaucoma, a leading cause of blindness.
• Face masks are essential for reducing respiratory infection transmission, as seen during global outbreaks like COVID-19.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the effect of wearing face masks on intraocular pressure (IOP) measurements.
• To understand potential clinical implications for glaucoma management.

Main Methods:

• A prospective, randomized, controlled, and blinded clinical study.
• Adult patients underwent IOP measurements using Goldmann applanation tonometry with surgical masks, KN95 masks, and without a mask (control).

Main Results:

• No statistically significant differences in IOP readings were found between mask conditions (P=0.116).
• However, 34.0% of patients showed an IOP difference of 3 mm Hg or more.
• These variations were not statistically significant (P=0.546) and unaffected by gender, laterality, medication, or prior treatments.

Conclusions:

• Face masks have a multi-factorial and inconsistent impact on IOP measurements.
• Clinical significance in IOP variations was noted in approximately one-third of patients.
• Factors like mask fit and breathing patterns may influence IOP readings, warranting further clinical consideration.