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Published on: February 15, 2020
Conjunctival Ultraviolet Autofluorescence: A Systematic Review of Factors Affecting Observed Ocular Damage
Ishwarya Suresh Kumar1, Katie Edwards2, Katrina L Schmid2
1Centre for Vision and Eye Research, Optometry and Vision Science, Faculty of Health, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia. ishwarya.sureshkumar@hdr.qut.edu.au.
Conjunctival ultraviolet autofluorescence (CUVAF) size may indicate both recent and cumulative sun exposure, with higher levels seen in high-UV regions and younger adults. Further research is needed to understand its dynamics under natural UV conditions.
Area of Science:
- Ophthalmology
- Environmental Health
- Dermatology
Background:
- Conjunctival ultraviolet autofluorescence (CUVAF) is a recognized indicator of ocular sun damage.
- Factors influencing CUVAF development and its temporal changes are not well understood.
- This review investigates the relationship between CUVAF size and ultraviolet (UV) exposure.
Purpose of the Study:
- To systematically review and evaluate whether CUVAF size reflects recent UV exposure, cumulative damage, or both.
- To analyze factors associated with CUVAF size, including age, location, and UV exposure habits.
Main Methods:
- A systematic literature search was conducted across major databases (Google Scholar, PubMed, Embase, Scopus, ProQuest).
- 35 studies utilizing CUVAF as a marker for sun exposure were analyzed.
- Data on CUVAF area, participant demographics, UV exposure, and eye health were extracted and analyzed, including age-related trends using LOWESS and polynomial curves.
Main Results:
- CUVAF area peaked in young adults and showed age-related oscillations, not a simple linear trend.
- Higher CUVAF areas were observed in high-UV regions (e.g., Australia) compared to lower-UV regions.
- Outdoor work, fair skin, and UV-related eye disease were associated with larger CUVAF areas, while myopia was associated with smaller areas. No seasonal variation or correlation with sunglass use was found. Artificial UV exposure caused temporary increases.
Conclusions:
- CUVAF size appears to reflect both acute conjunctival responses to UV and cumulative UV exposure.
- The findings suggest CUVAF is influenced by geographic location and individual factors like age and skin type.
- The ability of CUVAF to track dynamic changes under natural UV exposure requires further investigation with longitudinal data.
