The relationship between corneal changes and 2.45 GHz microwave exposure near safety limits (ICNIRP)

Abstract

Abstract: : Purpose:The objective of this study was to investigate whether the corneal changes reported by Kues et al. (1985) were the result of exposure to microwave electromagnetic radiation or whether other factors were involved. Methods: Under systemic anesthesia, male–pigmented rabbits (Dutch, 1.8–2.2 kg) were unilaterally exposed to microwave radiations (2.45 GHz) at 20–300 mW/cm². Other groups of rabbits under the same conditions received the following invasions: eye–lid closure, contact lens wearing, carbon dioxide exposure, nitrogen gas exposure, corneal cauterization, and albumin injection into the anterior chamber. Changes in the anterior segment were observed using a Scheimpflug image analysis system, specular microscope and a laser flare cell meter. Results: In the microwave exposed group, corneal bleb–like changes, similar to the corneal changes that Kues et al. reported, were observed in 2 out of 50 rabbits. These changes were not evident 7 days after it appeared. The transient cornea changes that were observed in the microwave exposed group were similarly observed in eyes of the carbon dioxide exposed group and those of the cornea cauterization treatment group. Conclusions: Corneal changes evident in subjects following exposure to microwaves might not be due to the microwave exposure itself but due to other factors.

Keywords: cornea: endothelium • radiation damage: light/UV • anterior segment