Seasonal Allergic Conjunctivitis Associated with Lower Vitamin D Levels
Low vitamin D levels are associated with seasonal allergic conjunctivitis, according to a study published in March 2014. The Allergy and Asthma Foundation of America reports that approximately 50 million American (one in five) have allergies. Primary eye allergies (allergic conjunctivitis) affect approximately four percent of individuals with allergies.
The researchers evaluated 49 patients with seasonal allergic conjunctivitis without any other eye or systemic diseases and 44 age- and sex-matched healthy subjects as the control group. The investigators measured levels of plasma 25-hydroxyvitamin D and serum total immunoglobulin E (IgE), an antibody that plays a significant role in allergic conditions, with electrochemiluminescence technique.
The investigators determined that the subjects with seasonal allergic conjunctivitis had plasma vitamin D levels significantly lower than the control group. Also, serum total IgE was significantly higher in the group with seasonal allergic conjunctivitis compared to the control group.
The study authors concluded, “We found lower plasma vitamin D levels and higher serum total IgE levels in patients with seasonal allergic conjunctivitis.”
Reference:
Dadaci Z, et al. Acta Ophthalmol. 2014 Mar 26.
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