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Pediatric Allergy and Immunology :... May 2024
Topics: Humans; Conjunctivitis, Allergic; Child; Male; Female; Interleukin-5; Treatment Outcome; Antibodies, Monoclonal, Humanized; Adolescent
PubMed: 38753431
DOI: 10.1111/pai.14139 -
Clinical Ophthalmology (Auckland, N.Z.) 2024Millions of acute conjunctivitis cases occur in the United States annually. The impact of COVID-19 mitigation practices on viral conjunctivitis incidence within...
BACKGROUND
Millions of acute conjunctivitis cases occur in the United States annually. The impact of COVID-19 mitigation practices on viral conjunctivitis incidence within ophthalmology clinics has not been reported. We hypothesized that viral conjunctivitis rates would decrease with implementation of such practices.
METHODS
A retrospective chart review was conducted at a single academic center's ophthalmology clinics. Electronic health record data was queried using ICD-10 diagnostic codes to include 649 patients aged 2-97 with viral, bacterial, or allergic conjunctivitis diagnosed either before (6/1/2018-5/1/2019) or during (6/1/2020-5/1/2021) COVID-19 precautions. Conjunctivitis rates per ophthalmology clinic visit were compared using rate-ratio analysis. Logistic regression evaluated the effects of age, sex, and race among those with conjunctivitis.
RESULTS
A total of 66,027 ophthalmology clinic visits occurred during the study period. Viral conjunctivitis rates per visit did not significantly change after enacting COVID-19 mitigation strategies, but allergic conjunctivitis rates significantly increased (viral: RR 0.82, 95% CI 0.51 to 1.31, p=0.408; allergic: RR 1.70, 95% CI 1.43 to 2.03, p<0.001). When controlling for time, younger age (≤ median age 55) (p=0.005) and Caucasian race (p=0.009) were associated with higher viral conjunctivitis frequency.
CONCLUSION
Contrary to trends reported in emergency departments, viral conjunctivitis rates within an ophthalmology clinic did not significantly change after COVID-19 mitigation strategies, though allergic conjunctivitis rates increased. Patients' avoidance of emergency departments during the pandemic may have contributed. Further investigation is required to explore variation in ophthalmology patient populations and needs based on care setting.
PubMed: 38746646
DOI: 10.2147/OPTH.S445315 -
Journal of Thermal Biology Apr 2024Infrared thermography (IRT) has become more accessible due to technological advancements, making thermal cameras more affordable. Infrared thermal cameras capture the... (Review)
Review
Infrared thermography (IRT) has become more accessible due to technological advancements, making thermal cameras more affordable. Infrared thermal cameras capture the infrared rays emitted by objects and convert it into temperature representations. IRT has emerged as a promising and non-invasive approach for examining the human eye. Ocular surface temperature assessment based on IRT is vital for the diagnosis and monitoring of various eye conditions like dry eye, diabetic retinopathy, glaucoma, allergic conjunctivitis, and inflammatory diseases. A collective sum of 192 articles was sourced from various databases, and through adherence to the PRISMA guidelines, 29 articles were ultimately chosen for systematic analysis. This systematic review article seeks to provide readers with a thorough understanding of IRT's applications, advantages, limitations, and recent developments in the context of eye examinations. It covers various aspects of IRT-based eye analysis, including image acquisition, processing techniques, ocular surface temperature measurement, three different approaches to identifying abnormalities, and different evaluation metrics used. Our review also delves into recent advancements, particularly the integration of machine learning and deep learning algorithms into IRT-based eye examinations. Our systematic review not only sheds light on the current state of research but also outlines promising future prospects for the integration of infrared thermography in advancing eye health diagnostics and care.
Topics: Humans; Thermography; Infrared Rays; Eye Diseases; Eye; Machine Learning; Body Temperature
PubMed: 38744026
DOI: 10.1016/j.jtherbio.2024.103867 -
Recenti Progressi in Medicina Apr 2024Allergic rhinitis (AR) is a widespread disease, and its prevalence is still growing. AR may be associated with other diseases, including conjunctivitis, rhinosinusitis,... (Review)
Review
Allergic rhinitis (AR) is a widespread disease, and its prevalence is still growing. AR may be associated with other diseases, including conjunctivitis, rhinosinusitis, asthma, food allergy, and atopic dermatitis. Diagnosis is based on history, physical examination, documentation of sensitization, such as the production of allergen-specific IgE, also using molecular diagnostics in selected patients. Treatments is based on education, engagement, allergen avoidance, non-pharmacological and pharmacological remedies, and allergen-specific immunotherapy (Ait). Symptomatic treatments mainly concern intranasal/oral antihistamines and/or nasal corticosteroids. This article also aims to discuss new management strategies for AR patients. The self-management of allergic rhinitis could include new strategies. In this regard, particular interest should be considered to intranasal corticosteroids and antihistamines without medical prescription, probiotics and other natural substances, and new formulations (tablets) of Ait.
Topics: Humans; Rhinitis, Allergic; Adrenal Cortex Hormones; Desensitization, Immunologic; Histamine Antagonists; Administration, Intranasal; Allergens; Immunoglobulin E; Prevalence
PubMed: 38742412
DOI: 10.1701/4264.42413 -
Clinical Optometry 2024To assess the prevalence of ocular morbidities and associated factors among hearing-impaired (HI) students at the Embangweni School for the Deaf in Mzimba, Malawi.
PURPOSE
To assess the prevalence of ocular morbidities and associated factors among hearing-impaired (HI) students at the Embangweni School for the Deaf in Mzimba, Malawi.
METHODS
This was an institutional cross-sectional study of HI students at Embangweni School for the Deaf. A series of optometric and audiometric tests was performed, and the results were exported to the Statistical Package for Social Science for statistical analysis (SPSS) version 25. Pearson's chi-square test was used to assess correlations and associations between variables. A -value less significance was set at p < 0.05.
RESULTS
A total of 147 children comprising of 76 (51.7%) males and 71 (48.3%) females participated in this study. The prevalence of ocular conditions and visual impairment was 39 (26.5%) and 2 (1.4%), respectively. The Prevalence of eye disease was significantly associated with male sex (p=0.02) and type of HI (p=0.031). Allergic conjunctivitis 36 (24.5%) was the most common ocular condition, followed by refractive error 28 (19%).
CONCLUSION
The prevalence of ocular conditions among HI students was significant and associated with sex. Regular school vision screening of students with HI is highly advised to reduce the burden of visual impairment.
PubMed: 38716043
DOI: 10.2147/OPTO.S444216 -
Cureus Apr 2024Allergic conjunctivitis (AC) is a prevalent ocular condition with a substantial impact on individuals' quality of life. This study aimed to explore the demographic...
BACKGROUND
Allergic conjunctivitis (AC) is a prevalent ocular condition with a substantial impact on individuals' quality of life. This study aimed to explore the demographic patterns, prevalence, symptoms, awareness, and attitudes associated with AC, while also examining potential associations with gender, age, and region of residence in Saudi Arabia.
METHODS
A cross-sectional study was conducted involving 487 participants. Data was collected through a self-administered questionnaire that included demographic information about AC prevalence, symptoms, attitudes, and awareness levels. Statistical analyses, including chi-square tests, were employed to examine associations between variables.
RESULTS
The study revealed a prevalence of AC (89, 18.3%) with common symptoms being eye redness (73, 82%) and itching (73, 82%). Participants displayed diverse awareness levels, with (376, 77.2%) correctly defining AC. The majority demonstrated either a good (230, 47.2%) or insufficient (196, 40.2%) attitude, while 54 (11.1%) had a sufficient attitude, and 7 (1.4%) exhibited an excellent attitude and awareness. Significant regional disparities were observed, impacting both prevalence and attitudes. While no gender differences were noted, the age group of 31-40 displayed a higher prevalence.
CONCLUSION
In this study, among 487 participants, the prevalence of AC was found to be 89 (18.3%). Meanwhile, attitude levels varied, with the majority demonstrating either a good or insufficient attitude. This provides valuable insights into the prevalence, symptoms, and awareness of AC in our population. The regional disparities underscore the need for tailored interventions addressing specific geographical contexts. The findings contribute to the broader understanding of AC, emphasizing the importance of targeted education and regional considerations in managing and preventing this condition.
PubMed: 38711709
DOI: 10.7759/cureus.57711 -
Annals of Ibadan Postgraduate Medicine Dec 2023Schoolteachers who have knowledge on eye diseases can detect early children with eye disorders and refer them promptly to an eye specialist. The aim of this study is to...
BACKGROUND
Schoolteachers who have knowledge on eye diseases can detect early children with eye disorders and refer them promptly to an eye specialist. The aim of this study is to assess the effectiveness of teachers in a vision screening program for primary school children in Abakaliki.
METHODS
This descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted among 20 randomly selected primary schoolteachers in Abakaliki to screen for vision abnormalities and detect eye problems among 350 children from 5 schools. Teachers participated in a 2-day training using a modified training algorithm on vision screening using a Snellen's chart and in the identification of common ocular abnormalities. Data was analysed using IBM SPSS version 26 statistical program and a p-value of <0.05 at 95% confidence level was statistically significant.
RESULTS
A total of 379 children were enrolled into the study however, 350 (92.3%) children participated in the study. School teachers correctly identified 283 (92.8%) children who had normal vision and 33(73.3%) who had impaired vision. Overall 60 (17.1%) children with perceived eye defects were referred to the ophthalmologist for re-examination. Refractive error and allergic conjunctivitis were the most common eye problems identified and children with refractive error and other ocular morbidity were referred to the base hospital.
CONCLUSION
Teachers are a valuable resource in the detection of eye disorders among school children. Their effectiveness can be further enhanced by regular training, and collaboration with eye care professionals. Addressing these limitations through policy implementation can lead to better eye health outcomes for school children in Nigeria.
PubMed: 38706626
DOI: No ID Found -
Cornea Apr 2024The purpose of this study is to report ocular cicatricial pemphigoid (OCP) occurring in young patients. Relevant literature is also reviewed.
PURPOSE
The purpose of this study is to report ocular cicatricial pemphigoid (OCP) occurring in young patients. Relevant literature is also reviewed.
METHODS
Medical records of patients aged 30 years or younger who were treated for OCP between August 2021 and May 2023 at a tertiary care eye institute were reviewed. The most common differential diagnoses of cicatrizing conjunctivitis, such as Stevens-Johnson syndrome sequelae, chemical injury, chronic topical/systemic drug use, autoimmune connective tissue disorders, or allergic eye diseases, were ruled out based on clinical history, examination, and the Cicatrizing Conjunctivitis Score described by Shanbhag et al. The diagnosis of OCP was confirmed by positive direct immunofluorescence of oral mucosal and/or conjunctival biopsy in a majority of the patients.
RESULTS
Seven patients fulfilled the criteria for a diagnosis of OCP. The mean age at presentation was 21.86 ± 5.25 years (13-28 years). Some of the patients presented with relatively atypical features for OCP such as corneal immune ring infiltrate and bilateral corneal perforation. Six patients exhibited systemic mucosal lesions, and the direct immunofluorescence yield was 85.71%. All patients required aggressive immunosuppressive treatment.
CONCLUSIONS
OCP is classically described as a rare disease that occurs in old age. This case series highlights the importance of a higher index of suspicion for diagnosing OCP at a younger age. Early administration of immunosuppressive agents can potentially control severe ocular surface inflammation and its sequelae.
PubMed: 38692674
DOI: 10.1097/ICO.0000000000003547 -
The Journal of Allergy and Clinical... Jun 2024Allergen immunotherapy (AIT) is a recognized key therapeutic modality for the treatment of allergic respiratory disease. Definitive studies have provided evidence-based... (Review)
Review
Allergen Immunotherapy: The Evidence Supporting the Efficacy and Safety of Subcutaneous Immunotherapy and Sublingual Forms of Immunotherapy for Allergic Rhinitis/Conjunctivitis and Asthma.
Allergen immunotherapy (AIT) is a recognized key therapeutic modality for the treatment of allergic respiratory disease. Definitive studies have provided evidence-based data to demonstrate its effectiveness in allergic rhinitis and asthma due to the inhalation of proteinaceous allergic substances from specific seasonal pollens, dust mites, animal allergens, and certain mold spores. Over the ensuing decades, laboratory investigations have provided objective evidence to demonstrate immunologic changes, including production of protective IgG antibody, suppression of IgE antibody, upregulation of regulatory T cells, and induction of a state of immune tolerance to the offending allergen(s). Tangential to this work were carefully designed clinical studies that defined allergen dose and duration of treatment, established the importance of preparing extracts with standardized allergens (or well-defined extracts) based on major protein moieties, and used allergen provocation models to demonstrate efficacy superior to placebo. In the United States, the use of subcutaneous immunotherapy extracts for AIT was grandfathered in by the Food and Drug Administration based on expert literature review. In contrast, sublingual tablet immunotherapy underwent formal clinical development programs (phase I-III clinical trials) that provided the necessary clinical evidence for safety and efficacy that led to regulatory agency approvals for the treatment of allergic rhinitis in properly characterized patients with allergy. The allergy specialist's treatment options currently include traditional subcutaneous AIT and specific sublingual tablets approved for grass, ragweed, house dust mites, trees belonging to the birch-homologous group, and Japanese cedar. Tangential to this are sublingual drops that are increasingly being used off-label (albeit not approved by the Food and Drug Administration) in the United States. This article will review the evidence-based literature supporting the use of these forms of AIT, as well as focus on several current controversies and gaps in our knowledge base that have relevance for the appropriate selection of patients for treatment with specific AIT.
Topics: Humans; Desensitization, Immunologic; Rhinitis, Allergic; Injections, Subcutaneous; Animals; Asthma; Allergens; Conjunctivitis, Allergic; Sublingual Immunotherapy; Administration, Sublingual
PubMed: 38685477
DOI: 10.1016/j.jaip.2024.04.034 -
Revista Alergia Mexico (Tecamachalco,... Feb 2024To report the pollen as a new allergen capable of triggering allergic symptoms.
OBJECTIVE
To report the pollen as a new allergen capable of triggering allergic symptoms.
METHODS
The pollen counts were made according to standardized technique with a Burkard seven days following the European Aerobiology Society´s Network Group recommendations.1 The trap was installed on the roof of Clinica SANNA, El Golf, San Isidro, which is 20 m high, 12°5'54"S 77°3'6"W in the west-south of the Lima urban area. The sampling period was performed from September 2020 to October 2021. Collection of pollens and Preparation of pollen extracts 1:20 w/v was done using a previously described method.2 We carried out systematic skin prick testing with Tipuana tipu pollen extract and other aeroallergens (), molds (), cat and dog danders, , weed mix (Inmunotek, Spain) on 80 patients (18 to 50 years old) seen in our allergy center, they suffering from november to january rhinitis and/or conjunctivitis symptoms. The majority living near avenues and large green areas, where trees grew.
RESULTS
We found a total of 952 grains/m of pollen between November 2020 to january 2021, with the maximum concentration of 37 grains/m on December 10. We also found other airborne pollen Types: Poaceae, Myrtaceae, Compositae and Betulaceae. 14/80 patients (17,5%) showed positive skin prick test only to extract. Most of the patients with positive tests to extract presented symptoms of rhinoconjunctivitis during the pollination period. Four patients showed positive skin prick test to and grass 6 mix extracts, most of the rest of our patients were sensitized to dust mites' extracts ().
CONCLUSIONS
The west-south population of Lima urban city is exposed to pollen. We do not foud previous publications about allergy. Almost 18% of the patients tested in our sample were mono-sensitized to this pollen. The results of this study should be compared with data from the forthcoming years, to identify seasonal and annual fluctuations, extend the traps to other locations in Lima, and of course try to standardize and improve the pollen extract.
Topics: Allergens; Humans; Pollen; Adult; Male; Female; Middle Aged; Peru; Adolescent; Young Adult; Skin Tests; Animals; Rhinitis, Allergic, Seasonal
PubMed: 38683076
DOI: 10.29262/ram.v71i1.1321