Prevalence of meibomian gland dysfunction at the time of cataract surgery

To determine the incidence of meibomian gland dysfunction and quantify subjective dry-eye symptoms in cataract surgery candidates.

Brest University Hospital, Brest, France.

Prospective case series.

Patients having cataract surgery between November 2015 and June 2016 completed the Standard Patient Evaluation of Eye Dryness (SPEED) questionnaire. Lipid layer thickness and partial blink rate measurements as well as gland structure assessment were performed using the Lipiview Ocular Surface Interferometer. A slitlamp examination determined tear breakup time; the quantity and quality of the meibomian gland secretion were determined using the Meibomian Gland Evaluator.

The study comprised 342 eyes of 180 patients. The mean lipid layer thickness was 72.5 nm ± 19.91 (SD). In patients with a SPEED score lower than 8, the mean lipid layer thickness was 77.5 ± 19.48 nm. In patients with a SPEED score of 8 or higher, the mean lipid layer thickness was 58.5 ± 19.58 nm. The difference in lipid layer thickness between SPEED score groups was statistically significant (P < .05). Fifty-two percent of patients had meibomian gland dysfunction, and 56% had meibomian gland atrophy equal to or more than Arita grade 1. Meibomian gland function correlated significantly with lipid layer thickness, symptoms, age, and gland atrophy (P < .05).

The incidence of meibomian gland dysfunction was high in patients presenting for cataract surgery. Fifty percent of patients with meibomian gland dysfunction were asymptomatic. Correct criteria and meibomian function and structure assessment are critical to diagnosis. Comprehensive preoperative testing should routinely include evaluation of meibomian function.