Estradiol levels associated with corneal ectasia in women
Elevated estradiol levels are associated with an increased risk for corneal ectasia in premenopausal women, according to an observational study.
The case-control study included 3 groups of women (n=96) from an Israeli eye clinic:
- Women with keratoconus (n=36; median age, 29 years)
- Women with post-refractive surgery ectasia (n=29; median age, 33 years)
- Healthy hospital staff controls (n=31; median age, 31 years)
Estradiol levels were (P<.001):
- 0 ± 2.4 pg/mL in group 1
- 4 ± 2.4 pg/mL in group 2
- 6 ± 3.9 pg/mL in group 3
Two multivariate logistic regression models adjusted for patient age, regularity of menstrual cycle, and use of oral contraceptive pills indicated that higher blood estradiol levels were associated with an increased risk of ectasia (odds ratio, 2.71 and 2.44, respectively; P<.001).
The study is limited by its small sample size and cross-sectional design.
“Estradiol measurements could be useful in women with keratoconus or in women who undergo refractive surgery,” the authors concluded.
Reference
Stanescu N, Arnon R, Yahalomi T, et al. The association between elevated blood estradiol level and corneal ectasia in women. Eur J Ophthalmol. 2024:11206721241266002. doi:10.1177/11206721241266002
