Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jun 21, 2026
05:00
Intense Pulsed Light for the Treatment of Dry Eye Owing to Meibomian Gland Dysfunction
Published on: April 1, 2019
A preliminary investigation into the relationship between ocular surface temperature and lipid layer thickness
Maria Jesus Giraldez1, Shehzad A Naroo, Carlos Garcia Resua
1School of Life and Health Sciences, Aston University, Birmingham, B4 7ET, UK.
Summary
This study found that higher ocular surface temperature (OST) may correlate with a thicker lipid layer in the tear film. However, no significant link was found between OST and tear film stability in young, healthy individuals.
Area of Science:
- Ophthalmology
- Optometry
- Biomedical Engineering
Background:
- The tear film's lipid layer is crucial for ocular surface health and visual function.
- Ocular surface temperature (OST) and tear film stability, measured by non-invasive tear break-up time (NIBUT), are key indicators of ocular surface condition.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the relationship between OST, NIBUT, and subjective lipid layer thickness in a cohort of young, asymptomatic individuals.
- To determine if OST variations correlate with different lipid layer patterns and tear film stability.
Main Methods:
- Evaluated NIBUT and tear lipid layer structure using a Tearscope Plus on a slit-lamp.
- Recorded OST using a self-calibrating infrared thermography camera, capturing pre- and post-blink measurements.
- Analyzed data from 29 young, asymptomatic participants.
Main Results:
- The amorphous lipid layer pattern was most prevalent (48.3%).
- Significant differences were found in pre-blink OST values across different lipid layer patterns (p<0.05).
- No significant differences in NIBUT were observed between lipid layer thickness groups (p=0.152), and no significant correlation between OST and NIBUT was detected.
Conclusions:
- Higher OST values may be associated with a thicker tear lipid layer in healthy subjects.
- The study did not find a significant relationship between OST and tear film stability in this normal population, possibly due to the asymptomatic nature of the participants.
Related Concept Videos
01:14Assessing Body Temperature - Tympanic membrane
Assessing tympanic membrane temperature involves using a tympanic membrane thermometer (TMT). Here is a step-by-step guide:
Step 1: Begin by practicing good hand hygiene to prevent the transmission of microorganisms.
Step 2: Turn on the thermometer and wait until the ready sign appears on the screen to ensure accurate measurement.
Step 3: Slide the probe cover in place to prevent cross-contamination.
Step 4: Instruct the patient to tilt their head to the side for comfort and check for cerumen...
Step 1: Begin by practicing good hand hygiene to prevent the transmission of microorganisms.
Step 2: Turn on the thermometer and wait until the ready sign appears on the screen to ensure accurate measurement.
Step 3: Slide the probe cover in place to prevent cross-contamination.
Step 4: Instruct the patient to tilt their head to the side for comfort and check for cerumen...
01:19Assessing Body Temperature - Temporal Artery
Here is a stepwise guide to assessing the body temperature at the temporal artery using a temporal artery thermometer
Step 1: Perform hand hygiene and don a fresh pair of gloves to prevent cross-infection and ensure patient safety.
Step 2: Explain the procedure to the patient to establish trust. Clear communication establishes trust with the patient, ensures they understand what to expect, promotes cooperation, and enhances comfort during the procedure.
Step 3: Assess the patient's forehead...
Step 1: Perform hand hygiene and don a fresh pair of gloves to prevent cross-infection and ensure patient safety.
Step 2: Explain the procedure to the patient to establish trust. Clear communication establishes trust with the patient, ensures they understand what to expect, promotes cooperation, and enhances comfort during the procedure.
Step 3: Assess the patient's forehead...
01:14Assessing Body Temperature - Oral
Here are the steps to accurately measure oral temperature using an electronic thermometer:
Step 1:
Start by practicing proper hand hygiene to prevent the spread of microorganisms.
Step 2:
Take the thermometer out of the charging unit, switch it on, and wait for the ready sign.
Step 3:
Gently slide the probe cover until a click is heard. This simple action prevents cross-contamination and ensures the correct placement of the probe cover.
Step 4:
Instruct the patient to open their mouth and place...
Step 1:
Start by practicing proper hand hygiene to prevent the spread of microorganisms.
Step 2:
Take the thermometer out of the charging unit, switch it on, and wait for the ready sign.
Step 3:
Gently slide the probe cover until a click is heard. This simple action prevents cross-contamination and ensures the correct placement of the probe cover.
Step 4:
Instruct the patient to open their mouth and place...
01:22Microbiome of the Eye
The human eye has a specialized microbiota that reflects its unique anatomical and immunological environment. This low-biomass microbial community predominantly colonizes the conjunctiva and eyelid margins, playing a vital role in ocular surface homeostasis and defense. Despite its proximity to the richly colonized facial skin, the ocular surface maintains a distinct microbial profile due to continuous mechanical and biochemical defense mechanisms.The conjunctival surface hosts fewer microbial...