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Subconjunctival and episcleral lipid globules
American Journal of Ophthalmology
|February 1, 1975
Summary
Peripheral subconjunctival globules, identified as connective tissue fat cells, are common in individuals over 50. Their prevalence increases with age, particularly in women and Black individuals, with unknown clinical significance.
Area of Science:
- Ophthalmology
- Histology
- Aging Research
Background:
- Asymptomatic peripheral subconjunctival and episcleral globules are observed in a significant portion of the aging population.
- These globules present in distinct patterns, either associated with vascular structures or as isolated deposits.
Purpose of the Study:
- To characterize the prevalence, demographic associations, and histological nature of peripheral subconjunctival and episcleral globules.
- To investigate the relationship between globule occurrence and factors such as age, sex, race, and obesity.
Main Methods:
- Ophthalmic examination of patients over 50 years of age.
- Histological analysis of the identified globules.
- Statistical analysis to determine correlations with demographic factors.
Main Results:
- Globules were found in over 50% of patients older than 50, increasing linearly with age.
- Higher incidence observed in women and Black individuals, with peak prevalence in the fourth decade for Black individuals and sixth for White individuals.
- Histological examination revealed the globules to be connective tissue fat cells, similar to orbital fat, and not related to obesity.
Conclusions:
- Peripheral subconjunctival and episcleral globules are a common finding in older adults, directly related to the aging process.
- The histological identity as fat cells and lack of correlation with obesity suggest a specific age-related phenomenon.
- The clinical significance of these age-related fat cell deposits remains to be determined.