Risk factors in the development of ocular surface epithelial dysplasia

Ophthalmology. 1994 Feb;101(2):360-4. doi: 10.1016/s0161-6420(94)31328-5.

Abstract

Background: Ocular surface epithelial dysplasia involves a spectrum of diseases ranging from only minor eye irritation to blindness and potentially death.

Methods: A case-control study involving 60 patients with ocular surface epithelial dysplasia treated between 1972 and 1991 and 60 age- and sex-matched individuals was conducted to compare relative ultraviolet light exposures over their lifetimes. A standardized self-administered ultraviolet exposure questionnaire was used for assessment.

Results: Risk factors identified include phenotypic features such as fair skin (odds ratio [OR], 5.4; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.1, 25.6), pale iris (OR, 1.8; 95%; CI, 0.9, 3.8), and propensity to sunburn (OR, 3.8; 95% CI, 0.7, 19.7), history of previous skin cancers removed (OR, 15; 95% CI, 2.0, 113.6), and being outdoors more than 50% of time in the first 6 years of life while living 30 degrees or less from the equator (OR, 7.5; 95% CI, 1.8, 30.6).

Conclusion: These risk factors suggest that ocular surface epithelial dysplasia is an ultraviolet light-related disease.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Aged
  • Aged, 80 and over
  • Case-Control Studies
  • Corneal Diseases / etiology*
  • Eye Neoplasms / complications
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Logistic Models
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Odds Ratio
  • Risk Factors
  • Skin Neoplasms / complications
  • Surveys and Questionnaires
  • Ultraviolet Rays / adverse effects