Arguments for 'ocular donation' as standardised terminology to reduce the 'ick factor' of 'eye donation'

This brief report presents the global problem of the shortfall of donor corneal tissue for transplantation, a potential root cause ('ick factor' language), and a potential solution (modification of 'ick factor' language). Specifically, use of the term 'eye donation' is a potential hurdle to ocular tissue donation as it can stimulate the 'ick factor.' Verbiage such as 'ocular (eye tissue)' could be a method of providing terminology that is less emotive than 'eye donor' or 'eye donation.' The field of transplantation has experienced terminology shifts over time; for example, 'cadaver' has been replaced with 'deceased donor,' 'harvest' has been replaced with 'recover,' and 'life support' has been replaced with 'ventilated.' Notably, only a small number of regions worldwide are using 'ocular' terminology, yet it could be an important step to enhancing the informed consent process and improving donation rates, potentially increasing transplant and optimising patient quality of life for those with treatable blindness.

Automated summary

This report presents the global issue of donor corneal tissue shortage for transplantation and suggests a potential solution by modifying the language used. It highlights that the term "eye donation" can discourage ocular tissue donation due to the "ick factor" it may generate. Instead, using terms like "ocular (eye tissue)" could provide less emotive terminology. The report emphasizes the importance of terminology shifts in the transplantation field and suggests that using "ocular" terminology could enhance the informed consent process, improve donation rates, and optimize patient quality of life for those with treatable blindness.