Factors Increasing Risk of Herpes Simplex Keratitis in Taiwan
Author Information
Author(s): Jan Ren-Long, Ho Chung-Han, Wang Jhi-Joung, Jan Han-Yi, Chen Jiun-Yi, Chang Yuh-Shin
Primary Institution: Chi Mei Medical Center
Hypothesis
To investigate the association among comorbidities, sociodemographic factors, and herpes simplex keratitis (HSK).
Conclusion
The study found that sociodemographic factors and certain comorbidities significantly increase the risk of developing herpes simplex keratitis.
Supporting Evidence
- Patients with corneal abrasion had significantly higher odds of developing HSK.
- Over 50% of HSK patients were aged ≥55 years.
- Patients living in Northern Taiwan had higher odds of developing HSK.
- Patients with hyperlipidemia, diabetes mellitus, coronary artery disease, chronic renal disease, or HIV infection had increased odds of HSK.
Takeaway
This study shows that people with certain health issues and those living in specific areas are more likely to get a serious eye infection called herpes simplex keratitis.
Methodology
A population-based, retrospective, matched case-control study using data from the Taiwan National Health Insurance Research Database.
Potential Biases
Potential misclassification of HSK cases and controls based on claims data.
Limitations
The study relied on claims data for diagnosis, which may lead to misclassification, and the findings may not be generalizable outside of Taiwan.
Participant Demographics
Patients with HSK were predominantly aged ≥55 years, with a slight male majority (52.71%).
Statistical Information
P-Value
p<0.0001
Confidence Interval
95% CI, 169.35–979.89
Statistical Significance
p<0.0001
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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