University of Massachusetts Medical School Faculty Publications
Title
Sunlight and ultraviolet radiation-pertinent retinal implications and current management
UMMS Affiliation
School of Medicine; Senior Scholars Program; Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences; Senior Scholars Program
Publication Date
2017-09-18
Document Type
Article
Disciplines
Eye Diseases | Ophthalmology
Abstract
Unprotected and prolonged exposure to ultraviolet (UV) light from sunlight, lasers, and arc welding leads to outer retinal damage. The photoreceptors and retinal pigment epithelium located in the posterior pole are particularly susceptible to this radiation. Classically known as solar retinopathy, this disorder frequently affects young individuals who have clear lenses and a propensity toward observing solar eclipses. Various imaging techniques aid the clinician in diagnosis, even if patients cannot recall an exposure event. By far the most utilized technique is optical coherence tomography that, in tandem with fluorescein angiography, and fundus autofluorescence, is crucial in ruling out other conditions. Fortunately, the prognosis of acute UV retinopathy is favorable, as most cases fully recover; however, a significant percentage of patients suffer from chronic sequelae: reduced acuity and lifelong central/paracentral scotomas. Thus, education toward understanding UV exposure risks, coupled with either abstinence or proper eye protection, is critical in preventing macular damage. We outline the various etiologies responsible for UV-induced retinopathy, describe the limited treatments available, and provide recommendations to minimize the potential devastating ophthalmic consequences as our society increases its reliance on UV-emitting technology and further engages in solar eclipse viewing.
Keywords
UV retinopathy, eclipse viewing, phototoxicity, solar eclipse, solar radiation, solar retinopathy
DOI of Published Version
10.1016/j.survophthal.2017.09.002
Source
Surv Ophthalmol. 2017 Sep 18. pii: S0039-6257(17)30179-0. doi: 10.1016/j.survophthal.2017.09.002. [Epub ahead of print] Link to article on publisher's site
Related Resources
Journal/Book/Conference Title
Survey of ophthalmology
PubMed ID
28923583
Repository Citation
Begaj T, Schaal S. (2017). Sunlight and ultraviolet radiation-pertinent retinal implications and current management. University of Massachusetts Medical School Faculty Publications. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.survophthal.2017.09.002. Retrieved from https://escholarship.umassmed.edu/faculty_pubs/1378
Comments
Tedi Begaj participated in this study as a medical student in the Senior Scholars research program at the University of Massachusetts Medical School.