[Eye diseases in sleep apnea syndrome]

Sleep apnea syndrome is characterized by recurrent complete or partial upper airway obstructions during sleep and recognized as an important risk factor for cardiovascular and cerebrovascular diseases. Several eye diseases have been associated with sleep apnea syndrome. Due to floppy eyelids often a chronic conjunctivitis occurs. A leaking mask used for apnea treatment may also induce a conjunctivitis. The lids may show an upper lid ptosis, lower lid ectropium, blepharochalasis, or trichiasis. Corneal findings include infectious keratitis, dry eye, recurrent erosion, keratoconus, and progressive endotheliopathy. Several optic neuropathies also seem to be associated with sleep apnea syndrome.