DOI: 10.4103/ojo.ojo_319_24 ISSN: 0974-620X

Comparative analysis of tear film status in psoriatic and nonpsoriatic patients: A cross-sectional study in Western Maharashtra

Kanchan Bala Rathore, Kiran Jagannath Dange, Pratik Bhosale
Show PDF Cite

Abstract:

BACKGROUND:

Psoriasis can affect the eyes either by direct involvement of psoriatic lesions or through immune-mediated inflammatory processes. The objective of this research is to assess tear secretion, evaporation rates of the tear film, and the overall health of the ocular surface in individuals with psoriasis, compared to those without the condition. This study focuses on the comparative evaluation of the differences in tear film characteristics between psoriatic and non-psoriatic patients.

MATERIALS AND METHODS:

The present study was designed as a cross-sectional study. It was conducted over a 4-month period which included 65 patients diagnosed with psoriasis and 65 matched controls. Tear film evaluation included the Schirmer test, tear breakup time (TBUT), tear meniscus height, and corneal and conjunctival staining. In addition, the ocular surface disease index (OSDI) was assessed using a validated questionnaire to measure ocular discomfort and surface health.

RESULTS:

Based on the Schirmer test, tear production was significantly lower in psoriatic eyes compared to non-psoriatic eyes ( P < 0.0001). Additionally, TBUT differed significantly between psoriatic and nonpsoriatic eyes ( P < 0.0001). Psoriatic patients also demonstrated notably higher rates of dry eye symptoms, as evidenced by OSDI scores (81.5%; P < 0.0001) and Schirmer test results (76%; P < 0.001). The overall prevalence of dry eye was 40% in psoriatic patients, compared to 16.15% in healthy controls. Out of 65 psoriatic patients, 52 cases observed with dry eye symptoms were classified as severe ( n = 26), followed by moderate ( n = 16), and mild ( n = 10). Based on the OSDI, we observed that dry eye symptoms were significantly more prevalent in psoriatic eyes compared to nonpsoriatic eyes ( P < 0.0001). Similarly, higher age and longer disease duration were significantly associated with dry eyes ( P < 0.001). Age, disease duration, OSDI score, Schirmer test results, and corneal and conjunctival staining were all significantly associated with TBUT ( P < 0.05).

CONCLUSION:

Psoriasis patients exhibit a higher incidence of abnormal tear film when compared to healthy controls. Routine ophthalmological evaluations are suggested, particularly for elderly individuals and those with prolonged psoriasis, to prevent potential complications.

More from our Archive