Ocular surface characteristics in acne vulgaris

Area of Science:

• Ophthalmology
• Dermatology

Background:

• Acne vulgaris affects sebaceous glands, potentially impacting ocular surface health and tear homeostasis.
• Understanding these effects is crucial for optometrists managing young patients' visual rehabilitation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate ocular surface features, meibomian gland status, and tear parameters in patients with acne vulgaris.
• To compare these parameters between acne vulgaris patients and healthy controls.

Main Methods:

• Evaluated 70 participants (34 acne vulgaris, 36 controls), assessing tear break-up time and performing Schirmer tests.
• Collected conjunctival samples for impression cytology and used meibography to determine meibomian gland loss rates.

Main Results:

• Acne vulgaris patients showed significantly lower tear break-up time compared to controls (p < 0.001).
• Meibomian gland loss rates were significantly higher in both upper (p = 0.001) and lower eyelids (p < 0.001) of acne patients.
• No significant difference in conjunctival impression cytology (Nelson grade) was observed between groups.

Conclusions:

• Patients with acne vulgaris demonstrate a predisposition to meibomian gland damage and tear instability.
• Ophthalmologic examination is recommended for acne vulgaris patients to assess ocular surface health.