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The ocular surface in cystic fibrosis
J D Sheppard1, D M Orenstein, C C Chao
1Department of Ophthalmology, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Children's Hospital of Pittsburgh.
Ophthalmology
|November 1, 1989
Summary
Patients with cystic fibrosis (CF) experience significant ocular surface issues, including increased fluorescein staining and blepharitis. These findings suggest tear film deficiencies contribute to the observed eye abnormalities in CF patients.
Area of Science:
- Ophthalmology
- Genetics
- Pulmonology
Background:
- Cystic Fibrosis (CF) is a genetic disorder affecting multiple organs.
- Ocular manifestations in CF patients require further investigation.
- Tear film abnormalities are suspected in CF-related eye conditions.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate ocular surface characteristics in patients with cystic fibrosis.
- To compare tear film parameters between CF patients and healthy controls.
- To identify potential causes of ocular surface disease in CF.
Main Methods:
- Comparative study of 17 CF patients and 17 matched controls.
- Comprehensive ocular surface evaluation including biomicroscopy and staining.
- Assessment of tear film parameters: Schirmer test, tear break-up time, pH, lysozyme, and protein.
- Microbiological and cytological analysis of conjunctival samples.
Main Results:
- CF patients exhibited increased fluorescein staining and clinical blepharitis.
- Significantly reduced Schirmer test results and tear lysozyme levels were observed in CF patients.
- Normal conjunctival epithelial cell morphology and reduced bacterial colonization incidence in CF patients.
- Aqueous and lipid tear film deficiencies are implicated in CF ocular surface abnormalities.
Conclusions:
- Cystic fibrosis is associated with significant ocular surface abnormalities.
- Tear film deficiencies, particularly aqueous and lipid, are likely contributors to these ocular issues.
- Further research into managing CF-related dry eye and blepharitis is warranted.