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Early Ultraviolet-Induced Corneal Immune Changes Identified Using In Vivo Confocal Microscopy in Otherwise Healthy
Pradipta Bhattacharya1, Katie Edwards2, Luisa H Colorado2
1Department of Optometry, College of Healthcare Professions (CoHP), Dehradun Institute of Technology University, Makka Wala, India; and.
Cornea
|June 2, 2026
Summary
Incidental ultraviolet (UV) radiation exposure is linked to subclinical ocular surface inflammation and increased corneal immune cells in young adults. Conjunctival UV autofluorescence (CUVAF) indicates early UV-related eye injury.
Area of Science:
- Ophthalmology
- Ocular Surface Disease
- UV Radiation Effects
Background:
- Chronic low-grade ultraviolet (UV) radiation exposure can impact ocular health.
- Subclinical inflammation and immune cell changes may precede overt ocular surface disease.
- Conjunctival UV autofluorescence (CUVAF) is a potential biomarker for cumulative UV exposure.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the association between incidental UV exposure, indicated by CUVAF, and subclinical ocular surface inflammation.
- To evaluate corneal immune cell alterations in relation to UV exposure in healthy young adults.
Main Methods:
- Fifty-two healthy adults (18-35 years) underwent CUVAF imaging and quantification.
- Ocular surface disease index, bulbar redness, and conjunctival roughness were assessed.
- In vivo confocal microscopy evaluated corneal immune cell densities (woDCs, wDCs, globular) and nerve parameters.
Main Results:
- CUVAF was detected in 60% of eyes, correlating with increased bulbar redness and conjunctival roughness.
- Eyes with CUVAF showed higher central globular immune cell density.
- Elevated densities of immune cells with and without dendrites (woDC, wDC) were observed in the superior cornea.
Conclusions:
- Healthy eyes with CUVAF exhibit subclinical ocular surface inflammation and increased corneal immune cells.
- CUVAF is a clinically accessible marker for early UV-related ocular surface injury.
- Findings suggest chronic low-grade UV exposure contributes to subclinical inflammatory changes in the ocular surface.
