Research Journal of Medical Sciences
ISSN: Online 1993-6095ISSN: Print 1815-9346
Abstract
Corneal ulcers are a significant global health concern, influenced by various factors including environmental conditions. Previous research has suggested a link between climatic variability and the prevalence of corneal ulcers, but few studies have explored the relationship comprehensively. The objective of the study is to assess the seasonal patterns of corneal ulcer cases and explore their correlation with climatic conditions, aiming to inform targeted preventive and management strategies. This retrospective cohort study analyzed 125 patient samples from Department of Opthalmology, Kamineni Institute of Medical Sciences, Narketpallywho were diagnosed with corneal ulcers over one year. Seasonal data were correlated with the incidence of corneal ulcers using Pearson's correlation coefficient. Diagnostic procedures included KOH mount, Gram stain and histopathology. The study involved 125 patients, with a mean age of 45.6 years (SD±15.2); 67% were male and 33% female, with 44% residing in rural areas and 56% in urban areas. Seasonal Incidence: Corneal ulcers were most frequent in summer (50 cases), followed by the rainy season (40 cases) and winter (35 cases).Diagnostic Findings: KOH mount detected fungal elements in 24% of cases, Gram stain detected bacteria in 40% and histopathology revealed cellular abnormalities in 60%.Correlation Coefficients: Summer showed the strongest correlation with corneal ulcers (r = 0.65), indicating a significant increase during warmer, sunnier months. Moderate correlations were found during the rainy season (r = 0.55) and winter (r = 0.45). The study confirms a strong seasonal influence on the incidence of corneal ulcers, with the highest rates in summer and significant, albeit lower, incidences during rainy and winter seasons. These findings suggest that climatic factors significantly impact the prevalence of corneal ulcers, highlighting the need for seasonal healthcare strategies to mitigate this public health issue.
How to cite this article:
Sai Kishore Bommu, Mamata M. Shetty, K. Tejaswi and P. Sudhir Babu. Seasonal Variability and the Incidence of Corneal Ulcers: A Retrospective Cohort Study.
DOI: https://doi.org/10.36478/10.59218/makrjms.2024.6.583.586
URL: https://www.makhillpublications.co/view-article/1815-9346/10.59218/makrjms.2024.6.583.586