The COVID-19 vaccine developed by Pfizer has been administered to millions of people worldwide, and its effectiveness and safety are widely documented. However, a recent study conducted in Turkey highlights a little-known aspect: the vaccine’s possible impact on eye health, specifically the inner layer of the cornea.
In the crosshairs: corneal endothelial cells
Scientists examined how the mRNA vaccine affected corneal thickness and the number and structure of endothelial cells. These cells are responsible for maintaining the cornea’s clarity and proper hydration. Damage to these cells can lead to swelling, clouding, and, in extreme cases, irreversible vision loss.
How was the study conducted?
The study included 64 individuals. Each underwent detailed testing before receiving the first dose of the vaccine and two months after receiving the second dose. The primary tests analyzed were endothelial cell density, size variation, and corneal thickness.
Key observations:
- the average corneal thickness increased,
- endothelial cell density decreased,
- greater variability in cell size was noted
