Characteristics of Corneal Morphology and Biomechanics in Children with Allergic Conjunctivitis and Association with Eye-Rubbing
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Objective : To characterize corneal topographic and biomechanical alterations in children with allergic conjunctivitis and evaluate their association with eye-rubbing frequency. Methods : This cross-sectional study enrolled children aged 8-14 years with diagnosed perennial/seasonal allergic conjunctivitis treated at our institution (January 2023-March 2025). All participants underwent routine ophthalmologic examinations, corneal topography, and visualized corneal biomechanics assessments. The results were compared with age- and sex-matched healthy controls. Eye-rubbing frequency was documented, and correlation analyses were conducted between eye-rubbing frequency and altered corneal topographic and biomechanical parameters. Results : No significant differences were found between the allergic conjunctivitis group and the control group regarding age, sex, or spherical equivalent. Among corneal topographic parameters, front elevation at the thinnest point（Fe）and front difference deviation (Df) were significantly higher in the allergic group compared to controls; no significant differences were found for other indices. In terms of corneal biomechanical parameters, the first applanation length and stiffness parameter at first applanation were significantly lower in the allergic group, while other indices showed no significant difference. Fe and Df were positively correlated with eye-rubbing frequency and fully mediated the effect of eye rubbing on the Tomographic and Biomechanical Index (TBI). However, first applanation length and stiffness parameter were not correlated with eye-rubbing frequency and did not mediate its effect on TBI. Conclusions : Children with allergic conjunctivitis exhibit increased anterior corneal surface height and front difference deviation compared to healthy controls. These abnormalities are associated with the frequency of eye rubbing, which influences the TBI via changes in Fe and Df.
