Incidence of Solar Retinopathy and Photokeratitis in Private Clinic Post 2017 and 2024 Solar Eclipses Across the USA

OBJECTIVES: The aim of this study is to evaluate the incidence of solar retinopathy and photokeratitis following the August 2017 and April 2024 solar eclipse using electronic health record (EHR) data from retina specialists across the United States, sourced from the Vestrum Health database. This investigation aims to identify the prevalence and demographic patterns associated with these ocular conditions in the post-eclipse period, contributing to a better understanding of the impact of solar eclipse-related eye injuries.

METHODS: Patients presenting with diagnoses of solar retinopathy or photokeratitis within the two-month periods following the 2017 and 2024 solar eclipses were identified. Descriptive statistics were used to summarize the demographic and clinical characteristics of the cases. Incidence rates were calculated and compared between the 2017 and 2024 eclipse periods. Geographic trends were analyzed using mapping and spatial analysis techniques.

RESULTS: There were 113 and 124 cases of solar retinopathy and photokeratitis reported following the partial eclipse in 2017 and total eclipse in 2024, respectively. Adjusting for the population in each time period, the incidence rates were 21 per 100,000 eyes and 14 per 100,000 eyes seen in the two months following 2017 and 2024 eclipses, respectively. The median time from eclipse to diagnosis was 10.5 days (IQR: 26 days) in 2017 and 15.5 days (IQR: 26.25 days) in 2024. There was no statistically significant difference in the age distribution or gender distribution of cases between the two eclipses.

CONCLUSIONS: Despite extensive promotional campaigns emphasizing eye safety prior to the solar eclipses, these results underscore the significant occurrence of solar retinopathy and photokeratitis following both the 2017 and 2024 events. Similar patterns in the timing of diagnosis and demographic distribution were observed between the two eclipses. These findings highlight the ongoing need for public education and protective measures to mitigate the risk of eclipse-related eye injuries.