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Eye discomfort and air pollution
P Versura1, V Profazio, M Cellini
1Center of Biotechnological and Clinical Research in Ophthalmology, University of Bologna, Italy. versura@alma.unibo.it
Summary
Discomfort eye syndrome (DES) involves subjective symptoms without clear clinical signs. This study found DES is linked to ocular surface inflammation and dryness, particularly in women over 51, and associated with air pollution.
Area of Science:
- Ophthalmology
- Environmental Health
Background:
- Discomfort eye syndrome (DES) presents subjective symptoms without obvious clinical signs of ocular disease.
- Understanding the underlying causes of DES is crucial for effective management.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the relationship between ocular surface cytology, tear film changes, and DES.
- To explore demographic factors (sex, age) and environmental factors (air pollution) associated with DES.
Main Methods:
- Conducted a study on 100 DES patients, excluding video terminal users, during peak winter and summer periods.
- Utilized Schirmer test I, ferning test, tear breakup time, and conjunctival cytology (scraping and imprint).
- Correlated ocular findings with patient sex, age, and recorded air pollution indexes.
Main Results:
- Ocular surface cytology and tear film analysis provided significant insights in DES patients lacking other clinical signs.
- DES symptoms were more prevalent in women over 51 years old (2:1 ratio).
- DES showed a significant association with subclinical ocular surface inflammation and dryness, linked to high air pollution levels.
Conclusions:
- Cytological methods and tear film analysis are valuable for diagnosing DES when clinical signs are absent.
- DES is associated with ocular surface inflammation and dryness, influenced by air pollution, particularly in older women.