UV Radiation at Outdoor Events Linked to Photokeratitis, Study Shows

In a recent publication in JAMA Ophthalmology, researchers have highlighted the potential dangers of ultraviolet (UV) radiation during outdoor recreational activities, particularly pointing to its association with photokeratitis.

The study, led by Julia Y.Y. Chan, M.B.B.S., from the Chinese University of Hong Kong, presents a case series involving eight patients who suffered from photokeratitis after attending an outdoor event featuring a UV radiation display.

Details of the Research

The research detailed that the average duration of exposure to the UV display was 3.00 hours, with symptoms typically manifesting approximately 8.88 hours post-exposure. Notably, none of the affected individuals wore protective spectacles during the event, and the symptoms impacted both eyes symmetrically.

The primary symptoms reported were eye pain (in all eight patients), red eyes (in six), and both tearing and photophobia (in five). Upon examination, the average visual acuity was logged at approximately 20/25 for both eyes, with signs of punctate epithelial erosions and ciliary vasodilation indicating corneal and conjunctival involvement.

Treatment and Recovery

Importantly, none of the patients showed signs of anterior chamber reaction. The prescribed treatment regimen included topical corticosteroids, lubricants, and antibiotics, leading to full recovery for all involved.

The authors of the study emphasized the significance of their findings, stating, "These findings provide evidence of an association between UV radiation used for recreational purposes and photokeratitis, which may help guide evaluation and management of future cases." This research serves as an important reminder of the potential ocular hazards associated with UV radiation exposure during outdoor activities.

Understanding Photokeratitis

Photokeratitis, commonly referred to as "snow blindness" or "welder's flash," is an eye condition that occurs when the cornea—the front surface of the eye—is burned by ultraviolet (UV) radiation. This condition is not only caused by direct sunlight but can also result from artificial sources of UV light, such as tanning lamps, welding arcs, or reflections from snow, water, or sand.

Symptoms of photokeratitis can appear within a few hours of exposure and include eye pain, redness, blurriness, sensitivity to light, and a sensation of having grit in the eyes. In most cases, the condition is temporary and the affected individual's vision usually recovers completely within 24 to 48 hours. Treatment typically involves resting the eyes, using lubricating eye drops, and avoiding further exposure to UV light to allow the cornea to heal. Wearing UV-protective eyewear is a key preventive measure against photokeratitis, especially during high-risk activities.

References

Julia Y. Y. Chan et al, Photokeratitis in Outdoor Event Participants Exposed to UV Radiation Display, JAMA Ophthalmology (2024). DOI: 10.1001/jamaophthalmol.2024.1092

Maria A. Woodward et al, UV Light Is Not a Toy—Recreational Use and Eye Harm, JAMA Ophthalmology (2024). DOI: 10.1001/jamaophthalmol.2024.1119