Air Pollution and Meteorological Conditions Significantly Associated With Vernal Keratoconjunctivitis Exacerbations.

ABSTRACT:

Purpose

Vernal keratoconjunctivitis (VKC) is a severe chronic allergic inflammation of the ocular surface with episodes of acute exacerbations, that primarily affects children and young adults. Although the etiology and pathogenesis of VKC remain unclear, studies have suggested that environmental factors may be involved. This study aims to investigate the association between exposure to meteorological and environmental factors and the incidence of VKC exacerbations.

Methods

This study was conducted in southern Israel, which is a semi-arid, hot, and dry climate with frequent dust storms. Patients diagnosed with VKC were recruited for the study. VKC exacerbations were identified as the need for medical intervention. Pollutants measured included nitrogen dioxide (NO2), ozone (O

SUBMITTER: Levanon E 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC10382993 | biostudies-literature | 2023 Jul

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature