Exploring the Diagnostic Utility of Tear IgE and Lid Wiper Epitheliopathy in Ocular Allergy Among Individuals with Hay Fever.

ABSTRACT: Allergic rhinitis (hay fever) prevalence has increased in Australia. People with hay fever often experience many eye symptoms, especially itching. This study explores clinical correlations between tear IgE levels and ocular allergy signs in hay fever sufferers, focusing also on eyelid wiper friction damage from eye rubbing. In a cross-sectional study from November 2024 to January 2025, 16 individuals with self-reported hay fever and 17 healthy controls were recruited. Participants completed demographic and allergy-related questionnaires, including symptoms and quality of life assessments. Tear samples were analyzed for IgE and MMP-9 biomarkers. Ocular surface parameters-bulbar redness, palpebral roughness, and lid wiper epitheliopathy (LWE)-were graded. Corneal and conjunctival dendritic c

SUBMITTER: Thomas R 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12470265 | biostudies-literature | 2025 Sep

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature