Lens autofluorescence is not increased at high altitude

Abstract

Purpose: To study the relation between ambient environmental ultraviolet radiation exposure and lens fluorescence. Methods: Non-invasive lens fluorometry measurements were compared in healthy Bolivian and Danish subjects. Background ultraviolet radiation was 4.5 times higher in Bolivia than in Denmark. Results: No significant differences in lens fluorescence or transmittance were found between Bolivian and Danish volunteers. Conclusion: Age-corrected lens fluorescence and transmittance were comparable for healthy participants living at high altitude near the equator and healthy volunteers living at sea level at 55° northern latitude. These results suggest that lens ageing, as assessed by lens autofluorometry, is independent of exposure to ultraviolet radiation. © 2009 Acta Ophthalmol.