2025, Volume 31, Issue 1

ALTITUDE AND ITS IMPACT ON OCULAR PHYSIOLOGY AND PATHOLOGY

GRZEGORZ ROTUSKI¹, JUSTYNA MĘDRZYCKA¹, RADOSŁAW RÓŻYCKI¹, JAROMIR WASYLUK¹, JOANNA GOŁĘBIEWSKA¹
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¹Department of Ophthalmology, Military Institute of Aviation Medicine


Autor korenspondencyjny: GRZEGORZ ROTUSKI; Department of Ophthalmology, Military Institute of Aviation Medicine; email: rrotus@hotmail.com

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Abstract: Altitude is an environmental factor that induces systemic physiological adaptations, many of which extend to the visual system. These changes are multifactorial and stem from fluctuations in atmospheric pressure, varying rates of oxygen deficiency (hypoxia), reduced gravitational forces, and increased exposure to ultraviolet radiation. Notably, environmental pressure differentials below sea level also bear clinical significance. For instance, divers—particularly those engaged in frequent and deep-sea diving—are subject to a unique set of environmental stressors that may predispose them to physiological alterations. Similarly, individuals residing in high-altitude regions exhibit numerous long-term adaptive mechanisms, which have their downsides. Aviation, especially at high altitudes and during high-speed flight, imposes additional visual health risks on pilots and aircrew. Furthermore, spaceflight represents an extreme environmental condition; prolonged exposure to microgravity has been associated with the development of spaceflight-associated neuro-ocular syndrome, a constellation of neuro-ophthalmic changes that are still under active investigation. In all these contexts, the composition of ambient air, including its humidity, temperature, and pollutant content, can significantly impact the ocular surface.

Słowa kluczowe

high-altitude retinopathy, acute mountain sickness, space-associated neuro-ocular syndrome, aviation medicine, military pilots