Allergic Conjunctivitis Research Articles

Genetically Predicted Immune Cell-Mediated Effect of Lipid Metabolism on Allergic Diseases: A Two-Step, Mediation Mendelian Randomization Study.

An increasing number of studies have demonstrated that dynamic changes in lipid species can affect allergic diseases; however, the causal relationship and mediating role of immune cells remain unclear. We conducted a bidirectional two-sample mendelian randomization (MR) analysis using genome-wide association study (GWAS) data on 179 lipid species (n = 7,174) and three types of allergic diseases including allergic rhinitis (AR) (n = 370,158), allergic asthma (n = 219,753), and allergic conjunctivitis (n = 377,277). The principal model used was the inverse variance-weighted approach, and a series of sensitivity analyses were conducted to ensure the robustness of the results. We used a two-step MR approach to assess whether the causal effect was mediated by immune cells (n = 3,757). Sterol ester and sphingomyelin played pathogenic roles in allergic asthma, AR, and allergic conjunctivitis; however, the effective subtypes differed. Among them, CD45RA- CD4+ mature T cells and CCR2 on CD14+ CD16+ monocytes affected the promoting impact of sterol ester's metabolism on allergic asthma and AR with different mediating proportions, while the role of sphingomyelin may not involve the immune cells. Moreover, we observed that HLA-DR on CD33- HLA DR+ myeloid cells, CD11b on CD66b++ myeloid cells, and IgD+ CD38- B cells played the most mediating effect of phosphatidylethanolamine (O-18:2_20:4) in allergic asthma, phosphatidylinositol (16:0_18:1) in AR, and phosphatidylethanolamine (18:0_18:2) in allergic conjunctivitis. This MR study provides evidence for specific lipid species associated with the risk of allergic diseases, especially sterol esters, and identifies the immune cells that mediate this causal relationship.

Depigmented, polymerized cat epithelium extract is safe and improves rhinitis and asthma symptoms in cat allergic patients: A real-world retrospective study.

Cat allergy is often difficult to avoid. Here, we evaluated the safety and effectiveness of a depigmented, polymerized cat epithelium extract (Dpg-pol-cat) for the treatment of allergic rhinoconjunctivitis and asthma. Real-world, retrospective study of patients ≥12 years with cat allergy and moderate to severe allergic rhinitis/rhinoconjunctivitis, with or without asthma, who started allergen immunotherapy (AIT) with Dpg-pol-cat extract during routine visits to the Allergy Department. Safety and effectiveness (improvement in FEV1) of AIT were evaluated. The use of rescue medication and patient perceptions were also assessed. A total of 62 patients were included, of which 34 (54.8%) received at least 12 months of AIT. There were 15 adverse reactions, 8 local and 7 systemic, of which 3 led to AIT discontinuation. Patients with moderate to severe rhinitis decreased from 88.2% at baseline to 29.4% at 12 months (p <0.0001), and patients with moderate asthma decreased from 76.5% to 38.2% (p = 0.0004). FEV1 improved from a mean (SD) of 3188.9 (771.4) ml to 3419.6 (878.4) ml (p = 0.0023). The use of rescue medications for rhinitis decreased from 94.1% to 23.5% (p <0.0001), all patients requiring rescue medications for conjunctivitis (20.6%) were medication free at 12 months, and 97.1% and 92.6% of patients reported improvement in rhinitis and asthma symptoms, respectively. AIT with Dpg-pol-cat extract shows a favorable safety and effectiveness profile in patients with allergic rhinitis/rhinoconjunctivitis, with or without allergic asthma, due to cat allergy, representing a valuable treatment option for these patients.

Association Between Atopic Dermatitis and Meniere's Disease: Nationwide Cohort Study.

Atopic dermatitis (AD) is a chronic inflammatory skin condition characterized by relapsing and remitting episodes. Although AD is well-known for its association with other allergic conditions, its relationship with Meniere's disease has not been thoroughly investigated. This study aimed to explore the potential correlation between AD and Meniere's disease. This study utilized data from the National Health Insurance Service-National Sample Cohort, a nationwide population-based database. The AD group was selected from a cohort of 1 million individuals randomly extracted from database. A non-AD group was obtained through Propensity Score Matching. The AD group comprised 84,579 individuals, with an equal number of individuals in the non-AD (control) group. The overall hazard ratio (HR) for Meniere's disease in the AD group was 1.44 (95% confidence interval (CI): 1.31-1.6). Subgroup analysis showed an adjusted HR of 0.42 (95% CI: 0.38-0.48) for Meniere's disease in males, 4.99 (95% CI: 4.45-5.62) in the middle-aged group (40-59 years), and 8.21 (95% CI: 7.21-9.35) in the older age group (≥60 years). Additionally, the adjusted HRs for developing Meniere's disease were higher in patients with comorbidities, including allergic rhinitis (1.18 [95% CI, 1.07-1.32]), allergic contact dermatitis (1.32 [95% CI, 1.19-1.48]), and allergic conjunctivitis (1.54 [95% CI, 1.32-1.82]). Long-term follow-up revealed that the prevalence of Meniere's disease was 1.44 times higher in the AD group compared to the control group. Moreover, older age, female sex, allergic rhinitis, allergic contact dermatitis, and allergic conjunctivitis were identified as factors that increase the risk of developing Meniere's disease. 3 Laryngoscope, 2024.

Short-course subcutaneous treatment with birch pollen allergoids greatly improves symptom and medication scores in birch allergy.

Subcutaneous immunotherapy has emerged as an effective option for treating allergic diseases. Here, we assessed the clinical impact of the mannan-conjugated birch pollen polymerized allergoid T502 in birch pollen-induced allergic rhinoconjunctivitis. In this prospective, randomized, double-blind placebo-controlled phase III trial, 298 birch pollen-allergic adult patients were treated across 28 trial sites in Germany. Patients received either placebo or 23,000 mTU T502 subcutaneously over five pre-seasonal visits. Efficacy was assessed by comparing the combined symptom and medication score (CSMS) between placebo and T502 during the peak birch pollen season 2022. Safety, tolerability and immunologic effects were also analyzed. During the peak birch pollen season, the median CSMS of the T502 group was reduced by 33% (p = 0.002) compared to placebo. The median daily symptom score and daily medication score were reduced by 30.4% (p < 0.001) and 56.3% (p = 0.045), respectively. Health related quality of life improved as reflected by reduction of RQLQ values by 31.5% (p < 0.0001). Production of Bet v 1 sIgG4 and Bet v 1 sIgG increased up to 6.2-fold and 3-fold respectively in the T502 group (p < 0.0001). The sIgE/sIgG4 ratio was strongly reduced in the T502 group at V7 (-62.9%, p < 0.0001). No fatalities nor serious adverse events were reported. In total, 16 systemic allergic reactions occurred (Grade I/II). Treatment with T502 significantly reduced symptoms and medication need in rhinoconjunctivitis patients. The treatment is well tolerated and safe.

Synthesis Methods of Loratadine and Its Clinical Application Comparison in Antihistamines

Loratadine is a second-generation antihistamine widely used in treating allergic diseases such as allergic rhinitis, urticaria, and conjunctivitis. Compared to first-generation antihistamines, loratadine has fewer central nervous system side effects, such as drowsiness and cognitive impairment, and exhibits prolonged efficacy. This paper comprehensively reviews the chemical structure, mechanism of action, and organic synthesis methods of loratadine. Loratadine’s tricyclic structure and selective binding to peripheral histamine H1 receptors allow it to effectively relieve allergic symptoms at low doses while minimizing side effects. The article also analyzes various classical and improved loratadine synthesis routes, comparing their advantages and disadvantages in terms of reaction conditions, yields, and environmental impact. By introducing novel catalysts and optimizing reaction conditions, the improved synthesis methods not only enhance yields and cost-effectiveness but also reduce environmental pollution. Additionally, this paper discusses the comparison of loratadine with other antihistamines in terms of efficacy and safety, highlighting its significant clinical advantages. Nonetheless, there remains a need for further optimization of its synthesis process and exploration of its potential in personalized treatment to meet the needs of different patients.

Corneal Ectasia Following Cosmetic Keratopigmentation.

The purpose of this study was to describe 5 cases (10 eyes) that, following purely cosmetic femtosecond laser-assisted keratopigmentation (KTP), showed evolution toward corneal ectasia during a variable postoperative period. In a case series, 5 patients after bilateral purely cosmetic KTP showed progressive changes in topographic, refractive, and even in visual performance values manifesting from 6 months to 4 years following the procedure. A femtosecond laser-assisted cosmetic intrastromal KTP technique was performed in all patients using micronized mineral pigments. Two patients underwent a retouch using superficial automated KTP to optimize cosmetic outcome. All patients preoperatively demonstrated normal corneal topography with no intraocular pathology and unimpaired visual acuity. One of the cases developed corneal ectasia after magnetic resonance imaging, another confirmed intensive eye rubbing due to allergic conjunctivitis, and 1 patient underwent previous myopic laser in situ keratomileusis procedure. The rest did not show any preoperative clinical evidence potentially related to the development of the keratectasia. One case rather demonstrated modification of keratometry (K) values than a clear corneal ectasia. Three cases were treated with epi-off corneal cross-linking. Corneal ectasia is a potential complication after cosmetic KTP and should be included in the preoperative informed consent. A comprehensive preoperative screening is necessary to exclude suspicious cases, and patients should be instructed to avoid eye rubbing and other maneuvers that could affect the potential development of this complication.

Prevalence, Clinical Characteristics, and Relative Factors of Acquired Punctal Stenosis in Adult Allergic Conjunctivitis Patients

Plain Language SummaryThis study aimed to examine the prevalence of acquired punctal stenosis (APS) among adults with allergic conjunctivitis (AC), describe its characteristics, and identify associated risk factors. We reviewed the medical data of 210 adult patients with AC at Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center. We gathered demographic data and evaluated ocular symptoms. Using slit-lamp microscopy, we assessed and graded the morphology of the lacrimal puncta (lacrimal duct openings) according to a modified grading system. The study results revealed that 69% of the adult patients with AC had APS. Stenotic lacrimal puncta were present in 49.3%, with grade IIa being the most common. The narrowing was most frequently observed in the upper lacrimal puncta compared to the lower ones. Older age and a higher tear meniscus height (TMH) were significantly associated with the presence of APS. Therefore, this study demonstrates that APS is commonly observed in adults with AC, which is associated with the increased age and widened TMH, indicating a possible link between chronic and recurrent AC and the development of APS.

The SQ tree sublingual immunotherapy tablet is effective and well tolerated in children-A pivotal phase III trial.

Allergic rhinitis and/or conjunctivitis (AR/C) induced by tree pollen is common and negatively impacts quality of life in children and adolescents. This phase III trial investigated the efficacy and safety of the SQ tree SLIT-tablet in a paediatric population (5-17 years) with moderate-to-severe AR/C induced by pollen from birch and trees in the birch homologous group. Nine hundred and fifty-two subjects were randomized (1:1) to daily treatment with SQ tree SLIT-tablet or placebo for up to 52 weeks and had free access to AR/C symptom-relieving medications. The primary endpoint was the average total combined score (TCS); sum of average daily symptom score (DSS) and average daily medication score (DMS) during the birch pollen season (BPS). Key secondary endpoints included average DSS and DMS during BPS and average TCS, DSS and DMS during tree pollen season (TPS). SQ tree SLIT-tablet demonstrated a statistically significant and clinically relevant treatment effect compared with placebo for the TCS during BPS with an absolute treatment difference of 1.29 (95% CI: 0.58, 2.00; p = .0004) and a relative reduction of 21.9% (95% CI: 10.6, 31.9). Results were substantiated by reductions in both DSS and DMS versus placebo during the BPS and in DSS, DMS and TCS during the TPS. Treatment was generally well tolerated. Most treatment-related adverse events were mild or moderate local administration site reactions. This is the first paediatric trial to provide robust evidence of efficacy and safety of the SQ tree SLIT-tablet in tree pollen-induced AR/C in a paediatric population (5-17 years).

Exploring food-specific IgG responses in pediatric allergic disorders: A retrospective cross-sectional study.

The role of immunoglobulin G (IgG) responses to food as potential triggering factors in allergic disorders continues to be debatable, and is not endorsed by most allergy societies. To explore the prevalence of specific IgG immune responses to common foods in pediatric allergic disorders and any potential relationship between them. A retrospective study was conducted on children and adolescents diagnosed with allergic disorders at the Ekthar Clinic in Jeddah City. Food-specific IgG (FS-IgG) antibody test results were collected from their medical records. Seventy-five children with a mean age of 8.5 years (SD = 5.3) were included. The overall allergic diagnosis determined atopic dermatitis as the most common (57.3%, 43 participants), followed by food allergy and allergic rhinitis (each 40%, 30 participants), and bronchial asthma (29.3%, 22 participants). Food-specific IgG levels were elevated in all participants. The foods with the highest levels of FS-IgG were dairy products (88%: cow's milk [86.6%], sour milk [81.3%], sheep's milk [74.7%], cheese [72%], and goat's milk [70.7%]), followed by gluten-containing products (81.3%: wheat [70.7%], gluten [69.3%], and spelt [66.6%]), and eggs (66.6%). Significant correlations (P < 0.05) were found between atopic dermatitis and several foods; chronic urticaria and chicken and lamb; asthma and ocean perch; allergic rhinitis and rennet cheese; and allergic conjunctivitis and potato, pollock, and lamb. Among pediatric allergic disorders, dairy, gluten, and eggs were the most detected foods in FS-IgG tests, with some notable correlations with other foods. FS-IgG testing may help identify potential triggers in refractory allergic disorders.

Risk of postpartum depression in women with allergic disorders: A nationwide cohort study involving 1,017,507 women

BackgroundAllergic symptoms and depression are prevalent ailments in childbearing age women. This study assessed the risk of maternal postpartum depression (PPD) associated with prenatal allergic disorders. MethodsFrom 1,017,507 eligible women of 20–49 years old with singleton live births and 20-week or more gestational age in the birth registry of Taiwan, from 2011 to 2020, we identified cohorts with and without allergic disorders matched by propensity score in the size of 457,826. Cumulative incident PPDs in one year after births were assessed from insurance claims data. Odds ratios (OR) of PPD were measured by each allergic type and multiple types, comparing with the controls. ResultsWith an overall cumulative PPD incidence 1.25-fold higher in the allergic cohort than in the controls (0.69 % versus 0.55 %), the rate was the highest in women with asthma: 0.94 % with an adjusted OR of 1.71 (95 % CI = 1.49–1.95), followed by those with allergic rhinitis, allergic conjunctivitis and atopic dermatitis. The rate increased from 0.65 % for those with one allergic disorder to 1.06 % for those with 4 or 5 disorders, and the corresponding adjusted OR increased from 1.17 (95 % CI = 1.10–1.24) to 1.92 (95 % CI = 1.36–2.69). LimitationThe claims data lack detailed information on socio-demographic status, lifestyle, laboratory result, physical activity, and family medical history. ConclusionsWomen with prenatal allergic disorder(s) are at an increased risk of PPD in addition to the impact of pregnancy. Prompt and efficient intervention for PPD prevention is needed for women with allergic disorders, particularly for those with asthma and multiple disorders.

Clinical-epidemiological profile, and treatment response in relation to associated atopic comorbidity in atopic dermatitis. Experience from the BIOBADATOP Registry.

Despite advances made in treatments for atopic dermatitis (AD), information on its impact and interaction with atopic comorbidities, such as asthma, rhinoconjunctivitis, and ocular disease is limited. This study aims to assess the clinical-epidemiological characteristics of patients with AD-treatment response included-while taking into consideration atopic comorbidities like these. Data were analyzed from the multicenter BIOBADATOP registry (a prospective cohort of AD patients initiating systemic treatment). We conducted a descriptive analysis of the main characteristics collected in the registry in relation to atopic comorbidity. We included a total of 509 patients, mostly adults (81.9%) with severe AD (73.7%). Patients with personal atopic comorbidity (64%) more frequently exhibited flexural dermatitis (89.7% vs 81.5%), a higher mean of previous systemic treatments (1.6 vs 1.3), and higher baseline values on the POEM scale (19.6 vs 17.9). Patients with familial atopic comorbidity (40.7%) had a higher incidence of pediatric/adolescent patients (24.2% vs 13.9%) and a history of allergic rhinoconjunctivitis (61.1% vs 47.1%). No differences regarding treatment response were observed at the 6- and 12-month follow-ups based on the presence or absence of atopic comorbidities. Results suggest that a history of atopic comorbidity is associated with an early onset and persistent course of AD. Although no differences were reported in the short-term treatment response, further follow-up is required to better understand the impact of comorbidities on AD.

Exploring the Causal Relationship between Plasma Lipidome and Allergic Diseases: A Mendelian Randomization Study

Allergic diseases, including Allergic Rhinitis (AR), Allergic Asthma (AA), Allergic Conjunctivitis (AC), and Allergic Contact Dermatitis (ACD), affect a significant portion of the global population. Recent advances in lipidomics have highlighted the role of plasma lipids in immune regulation and inflammation.

An integrated paradigm between green analytical chemistry and quality-by-design for robust analysis of alcaftadine and ketorolac tromethamine in aqueous humor via sustainable chromatographic methods

The field of pharmaceutical industry has witnessed the launch of a new co-formulated eye drop, composed of alcaftadine and ketorolac tromethamine, for alleviating allergic conjunctivitis. Such new formulation evokes the need for a sensitive, robust and fast analytical method capable of their quantification in their dosage form, in aqueous humor for pharmaco-kinetics studies as well as in presence of plausible degradation products. In this work, two validated stability-indicating chromatographic methods were developed for alcaftadine and ketorolac assaying with good adherence to values of green analytical chemistry. Drugs stabilities were tested under various stress conditions where drugs showed liability for oxidative degradation only. For the first chromatographic method, an integrated merger between analytical quality-by-design and green analytical chemistry was implemented via a UPLC method coupled with photo-diode array detector. A short C18 analytical column of 100 mm was utilized with mobile phase of ethanol: aqueous solution pH 4.0 containing 0.1% triethylamine (40: 60, by volume). Second method was thin layer chromatographic one using HPTLC silica plates as a stationary phase and a developing system of dichloromethane: ethanol (5:4, by volume). Both methods achieved to selectively quantify the studied drugs with high accuracy and precision without any interference from degradation products or related excipients in eye drops. The methods were also successfully exploited for ALF and KTC assaying in rabbit aqueous humor, with no need for prior extraction procedures, for further pharmacokinetic studies. Finally, usage of green solvents gives us the advantage of applying various evaluation tools to conclude method greenness.

Prevalence of symptomatic dry eye and influencing factors among Chinese adolescents: A cross-sectional study.

Comprehensive research on the impact of various types of refractive errors (RE) and anisometropia on dry eye disease is still lacking. This study aimed to estimate the prevalence rates and potential lifestyle factors related to symptomatic dry eye (SDE) among adolescents in eastern China. A cross-sectional study was performed in 2023, and a stratified cluster sampling technique was used among adolescents in Nantong, China. Demographic information, including sex, age and BMI, were collected. All participants underwent optometric tests, while Ocular Surface Disease Index (OSDI) and self-designed questionnaires were administered. Both univariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses were used to assess associations between SDE and related parameters, and various types of RE and anisometropia were also included in the study. A total of 1,518 participants were enrolled in the study, and the overall prevalence of SDE was 20.3% among adolescents in Nantong, China. Multiple logistic regression analyses showed that high myopia (aOR = 3.42, 95% CI = 1.60-3.36, p = 0.025), frequent use of eye drops (aOR = 2.31, 95% CI = 1.60-3.36, p<0.001), a history of allergic conjunctivitis (aOR = 1.93, 95% CI = 1.09-3.34, p = 0.025), and frequent blinking (aOR = 3.23, 95% CI = 2.31-4.53, p<0.001) were identified as risk factors for SDE. Conversely, male gender (aOR: 0.76, 95% CI: 0.58-0.99, p = 0.043), increased sleep time (6-7 h: aOR = 0.64, 95% CI = 0.46-0.89, p = 0.009; 7-8 h: aOR = 0.64, 95% CI = 0.43-0.95, p = 0.026; >8 h: aOR = 0.43, 95% CI = 0.23-0.82, p = 0.010), and timely intervention when vision decline occurred were protective factors against SDE (aOR = 0.61, 95% CI = 0.43-0.85, p = 0.004). High myopia was found to be independently associated with an increased risk of SDE., while hyperopia, astigmatism, and anisometropia were not independent risk factors for SDE. The identified risk and protective factors may help provide valuable insights for future research and interventions aimed at improving ocular health in adolescents.

Long-term effects of air pollution on daily outpatient visits for allergic conjunctivitis from 2013 to 2020: a time-series study in Urumqi, China.

This study aimed to elucidate the effects of outdoor air pollution and allergic conjunctivitis and population-based lagged effects of air pollution. We included data on six major air pollutants, PM10, PM2.5, carbon monoxide (CO), sulfur dioxide (SO2), nitrogen dioxide (NO2), and ozone (O3), and 3325 allergic conjunctivitis outpatient visits in Urumqi, northwest China, from 1 January 2013 to 31 December 2020. We developed quasi-Poisson generalized linear regression models with distributed lagged nonlinear models (DLNM), and single and multi-pollutant models were constructed to investigate single-day and cumulative lagged effects in detail. Our results confirmed that elevated PM10 and NO2 levels are significantly associated with increased allergic conjunctivitis outpatient visits with lags of 2 and 3 days respectively, and subgroup analyses further suggest that the effects of PM10 and NO2 on allergic conjunctivitis are more pronounced during the warm season. Women are more sensitive to PM10 exposure and the effect of air pollution on allergic conjunctivitis is influenced by age (e.g., infancy and older people). Our work provides the first time-series study in Urumqi, the world's furthest inland city from the ocean. Further implementation of specific outdoor air pollution controls such as the burning of fossil fuels like coal, as well as special population protection policies remain necessary. Multicenter studies with larger sample sizes are needed.

Lake of pearls-multiple conjunctival cysts in a case of allergic conjunctivitis.

Lake of pearls-multiple conjunctival cysts in a case of allergic conjunctivitis.

Sensitizations to pollen differ between Central European and Sub-Saharan African atopic dermatitis patients

Summary Background Atopic dermatitis (AD) is often associated with allergic comorbidities, such as allergic asthma or allergic rhinoconjunctivitis (ARC). Sensitizations to pollen can directly impact AD, as patients can experience exacerbation during pollen season. This study aims to gain more insights into the pollen sensitization patterns of AD patients in Central Europe compared with sub-Saharan Africa (SSA). Methods We performed a case–control study involving a total of 90 participants: 20 AD patients and 10 healthy controls (HC) each from Switzerland (CH), Tanzania (TZ), and Madagascar (MD). We collected clinical data and serum samples and performed a multiplex IgE test (ALEX2 Allergy Explorer, MacroArray Diagnostics, Vienna, Austria). Results The prevalence of ARC and asthma in AD patients was similar in all countries (ARC: 60% TZ, 70% CH, 75% MD; asthma: 25% TZ, 30% CH, 20% MD). Total IgE levels were significantly higher in both SSA HC populations compared with the Swiss HC. The analysis of specific IgE levels revealed major differences in sensitization patterns between Africa and Europe, especially regarding grass pollen allergens. Swiss AD patients were sensitized to various grass pollen such as Bahia grass, Bermuda grass, common reed, perennial ryegrass, rye, and timothy grass. However, these allergens were irrelevant in the SSA population: no AD patient or HC subject was sensitized to the tested grass pollen. Conclusion The considerably different sensitization patterns between European and SSA AD patients warrant the development of allergy testing and desensitization therapies tailored to the African setting. Therefore, there is a need to characterize local pollen types and counts.

Prevalence of dry eye disease symptoms, associated factors and impact on quality of life among medical students during the pandemic

This cross-sectional study aimed to evaluate the prevalence of dry eye disease (DED) symptoms, their associated factors, and the impact on quality of life (QOL) and mental health among medical students during the COVID-19 pandemic using online surveys. Participants completed questionnaires covering demography, medical history, and personal data. The Thai version of the Dry Eye-related Quality-of-Life Score (DEQS-Th) was used for DED screening. The QOL and mental health challenges (support, coping, stress, and depression) were evaluated by the EuroQoL-5 dimensions-5 levels (EQ-5D-5L) and Thymometer questionnaires. A total of 449 participants were analyzed, with a mean age of 21.8 years and 61.5% female. The prevalence of DED symptoms was 60.4% (95%CI 55.7–64.8). The DEQS-Th score, the EQ-5D-5L score, and all aspects of mental health challenges were significantly worse in DED participants compared to non-DED participants. Associated factors for DED symptoms included preexisting DED (p = 0.001), refractive errors (p = 0.007), allergic conjunctivitis (p = 0.001), artificial tears use (p < 0.001), and decreased EQ-5D-5L score (p < 0.001). This study highlighted the high prevalence of DED symptoms among medical students during the pandemic and its negative impact on QoL and mental health. Notably, female gender, contact lens wear, screen time, and mask-wearing duration were not associated with DED symptoms.

The Microbiome and Atopic Dermatitis

: The microbiome consists of a collection of microorganisms, their genetic material, and their interactions within a specific biological environment. Atopic dermatitis is a complex, long-lasting inflammatory skin condition that causes dryness and itchiness. It is often associated with other conditions like allergic rhino conjunctivitis and asthma. Contemporary methods that do not require culturing have been developed to identify microorganisms and their genetic makeup, which can have both positive and negative effects on their host. There are indications that microorganisms in the gut and on the skin could potentially influence the progression of atopic dermatitis. Although antiseptic treatments have been used for many years, conventional diagnostic methods and genomics are now beginning to help us understand that targeted interventions for imbalanced microbial communities might eventually be incorporated into a comprehensive therapeutic approach.

Sensitization and allergy to pineapple and coconut juice in patients followed up for allergic diseases in Parakou, Benin

Objectives: Little is known about adverse food reactions. The aim of this study was to investigate the sensitization and allergy to two tropical fruits, pineapple (Ananas comosus) and coconut (Cocos nucifera), among patients followed up for allergic disease in Borgou Teaching Hospital in Parakou, Benin. Materials and Methods: A prospective cross-sectional study was conducted in 2021. Adult patients (≥18 years) who were followed up for allergic asthma, rhinitis, or conjunctivitis were included in the study. Information on clinical manifestations following pineapple juice or coconut water drinking was collected, and skin prick testing was carried out. Results: Overall, 101 patients were enrolled, male-female ratio of 0.4:1 and mean age of 33.4 (±14.4) years. Clinical manifestations were triggered by pineapple in 53.5%, mainly mouth and lip pruritus (38.6%). The prevalence of sensitization was 36.6%. Allergy was diagnosed in 24.8% (or 46.3% of those who complained) and was associated with mouth and lip pruritus (odds ratio [OR] = 4.1; 95% confidence interval [CI] = 1.6–10.6; P = 0.003), bronchospasm (OR = 3.7;95%CI = 1.1–12.7; P = 0.031), allergic rhinitis (OR = 3.5; 95%CI = 1.2–10.4; P = 0.020), and conjunctivitis (OR = 4.4; 95%CI = 1.6–12.5; P = 0.007). Clinical manifestations after ingestion of coconut water reportedly occurred in 18.8% and were mostly bronchospasm (8.9%). The prevalence of sensitization was 20.8%. Allergies were diagnosed in 6.9% (or 33.3% of those who complained), with no association found with demographic or clinical characteristics. Conclusion: Pineapple is a common cause of food allergy among patients who are followed up in Borgou Teaching Hospital, while coconut is less responsible for this disorder. More studies are required to improve knowledge of allergic diseases in Sub-Saharan Africa, which is facing an epidemiological transition.