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Detection of microplastics in pterygium tissue: Implications for environmental hazards
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Researchers detected microplastics in surgically removed pterygium tissue from a patient's eye, identifying ten particles including polyethylene, polystyrene, and polypropylene ranging from 5 to 99 micrometers. The findings suggest that environmental microplastics may commonly reach the ocular surface, raising concerns about eye-related exposure pathways.
PurposeThis study aimed to report a case of microplastics (MPs) detection in a pterygium patient's tissue.Case reportA pterygium specimen was obtained from the right eye of a 43-year-old woman by surgical removal of a recurred pterygium. The number, morphology, and material type of the MPs in pterygium were identified using Raman microscopy and scanning electron microscopy. Ten MPs were detected in the pterygium, which corresponded to polyethylene (PE) (n = 7), polystyrene (PS) (n = 2), and polypropylene (PP) (n = 1). The size of MPs ranged from 5-9 µm (n = 5, PE or PS), 10-19 µm (n = 4, PE), and 50-99 µm (n = 1, PP). All MPs were transparent and irregular fragments.ConclusionsThis study demonstrated the detection of MPs in the pterygium tissue. Our findings suggest that environmental hazards, such as MP, may be commonly exposed to the ocular surface.
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Microplastics exposures in cataract surgery and potential clinical concerns
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Scientists found tiny plastic particles called microplastics in people's eyes during cataract surgery, with higher amounts in patients who had diabetes or other eye problems. The plastic pieces were already inside the eye before surgery started, suggesting they came from everyday exposure rather than from the surgical tools themselves. This discovery raises concerns about how microplastics might affect eye health, though more research is needed to understand if they cause harm.
Detection and Characterization of Multiple Microplastics in the Human Retina
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Scientists detected microplastics in all 12 post-mortem human retina samples tested, with concentrations averaging about 49 micrograms per gram of tissue. Common plastics like polystyrene, polyethylene, polypropylene, and PVC were found, mostly as tiny fragments and fibers between 20 and 50 micrometers. This is the first study to confirm and measure microplastics in the human eye, raising new questions about whether these particles could affect vision or retinal health over time.
Microplastics and Nano-plastics in Eye Health: Ocular Exposure, Toxicity, and Clinical Implications
Microplastics and Nano-plastics in Eye Health: Ocular Exposure, Toxicity, and Clinical Implications
An often-overlooked health issue: The potential adverse effects of microplastics on the human ocular health
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Tiny plastic particles from air, cosmetics, and even contact lenses can land on the surface of your eyes, and this review of existing research suggests they may contribute to problems like dry eye, irritation, and inflammation of the cornea. While scientists are still figuring out exactly how harmful these particles are, the risk seems to depend on factors like plastic type and size, and can potentially be lowered by cutting down on plastic use and being mindful with contact lens care. It's a good reminder that microplastic exposure isn't just about what we eat or breathe, it may also affect the health of our eyes.
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When a large batch of papers lands in the Atlas, we read through it and send a short write-up of what stood out.