Topical glaucoma therapy and ocular surface disease: a prospective, controlled cohort study

Area of Science:

• Ophthalmology
• Ocular Surface Disease
• Glaucoma Management

Background:

• Topical glaucoma medications are essential for intraocular pressure (IOP) control.
• Ocular surface disease (OSD) is a common complication that can affect patient adherence and quality of life.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the relationship between the intensity and duration of topical glaucoma therapy and the severity of OSD signs and symptoms.
• To quantify the association between treatment burden and ocular surface health.

Main Methods:

• A prospective, cross-sectional study involving 61 patients, divided into a glaucoma treatment group (n=31) and a control group (n=30).
• Patients completed the Ocular Surface Disease Index (OSDI) questionnaire.
• Ocular surface evaluation included lissamine green (LG) staining and tear breakup time (TBUT).
• A topical therapy intensity index (drops/week × therapy duration in years) was calculated.

Main Results:

• The glaucoma group exhibited significantly higher OSDI scores compared to the control group (18.97 vs. 6.25, p < 0.0001).
• A positive correlation was found between the intensity index and OSDI scores in the glaucoma group (r = 0.46).
• Higher prevalence of abnormal TBUT (68%) and LG staining (65%) was observed in patients using glaucoma medications.

Conclusions:

• Patients undergoing topical glaucoma therapy demonstrate a greater prevalence of OSD symptoms.
• The calculated intensity index of topical therapy correlates with OSDI scores, quantifying treatment burden.
• The intensity index may serve as a predictive tool for OSD development in glaucoma patients.