The Effects of Face Mask Use on Ocular Structures in Children During the COVID-19 Pandemic

INTRODUCTION: Aim: To determine the effects of face mask use on ocular structures in children during the Coronavirus disease-2019 (COVID-19) pandemic
METHODS: Forty-two children’s ocular data in pandemic period were compared with the same children's ocular data in pre-pandemic period.
RESULTS: The mean age was 14.6±2.1 (9-18) years initially. Tear film break-up time values of children with a mask in pandemic period were significantly shorter than those of children without a mask in pre-pandemic period (9.35±1.40 vs 12.10±1.05 second, p=0.033). There was no staining in any case in pre-pandemic period, while minimal punctate epithelial corneal staining pattern was determined in 4 (9.5%) children in pandemic period. Schirmer 1 test value detected in pandemic period was similar to the value detected in pre-pandemic period (11.14±2.07 vs 12.03±1.01 mm, p=0.127). Additionally, there were no significant changes in visual acuities, central corneal thicknesses, anterior chamber depths, lens thicknesses, and axial lengths between the pre-pandemic and pandemic periods (p>0.05).
DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSION: To our knowledge, this is the first study to date to evaluate the effects of face mask use on ocular structures only in children. The use of face masks may cause the increased tear evaporation and the dry eye in pediatric cases. Educating the children about the correct use of face masks can be important. Thus, possible ocular surface changes that may occur related to the mask can be prevented, and the children may be more willing to use masks. Increased mask compliance may also indirectly help protect the children from the virus.