Ocular surface alterations in agricultural workers exposed to pesticides in Cundinamarca, Colombia - 01/08/24
Highlights |
• | Individuals exposed to organophosphate pesticides can have alterations in the ocular surface. |
• | Tear secretion might be a biomarker in individuals exposed to pesticides. |
• | Direct exposure of the ocular surface to pesticides leads to ocular alterations accompanied by signs and symptoms. |
Abstract |
Background |
The cholinergic system regulates a variety of structures on the ocular surface and maintains homeostasis. Therefore, dysregulation of cholinergic activity could impact lacrimal and conjunctival function. Consequently, exposure of the ocular surface to chemical agents, including pesticides such as acetylcholinesterase inhibitors, which interact closely with the ocular surface and anterior segment, could affect ocular homeostasis. In this study, we assess alterations in the ocular surface in workers exposed to organophosphate pesticides.
Methods |
A cross-sectional study was conducted involving 39 participants (23 controls and 16 cases exposed to agrochemicals). The ocular surface of all subjects was assessed using the Schirmer test, TBUT, conjunctival impression cytology, and the Q16 neurotoxicity and ocular symptoms questionnaire by Donate.
Results |
Conjunctival hyperemia, impression cytology and Schirmer test were found to be altered in the workers exposed to cholinesterase inhibitor pesticides.
Conclusion |
These findings suggest that ocular surface alterations can be seen in organophosphate pesticide exposure, and that lacrimal hypersecretion could be an ocular biomarker for detecting pesticide effects before adverse clinical effects occur.
Le texte complet de cet article est disponible en PDF.Keywords : Tear film, Conjunctiva, Neurotoxicity, Cholinesterase activity, Cholinesterase inhibitors
Plan
Vol 7
Article 100122- septembre 2024 Retour au numéroBienvenue sur EM-consulte, la référence des professionnels de santé.