Eclipse retinopathy injury scale (ERIS): A classification of acute macular damage resulting from unprotected solar eclipse viewing

Introduction. Eclipse retinopathy occurs due to unprotected viewing of a solar eclipse. It is a long-recognized condition. The damage inflicted to the macula is due to a photochemical and photothermal effect caused by sunlight that enters the eye and is focused by the crystalline lens. Animal studies into eclipse retinopathy have been previously carried out. Retinal irradiance levels leading to macular damage have been established in rabbits. Limited data from studies on primates are also available. However, the exact values for humans have not yet been established with confidence.

Methods. Here we present a simple method for estimation of the retinal irradiance dose in humans and a classification of macular damage.

Results. As an example, the retinal irradiance dose of a theoretical patient observing the solar eclipse of March 20, 2015, is given along with the grade of macular damage according to the developed classification.

Discussion. The retinal irradiance values given in the classification are provisional for the time being. With more widespread use among ophthalmologists the developed classification should become useful for prognostic purposes.