Ocular Findings of Pediatric Dry Eye Related to Graft-Versus-Host Disease

To evaluate the frequency and findings of dry eye associated with ocular graft-versus-host disease (GVHD) in pediatric hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT) patients.

Retrospectively the records of pediatric patients with ocular GVHD were evaluated and ophthalmologic examination findings as well as Schirmer test results, tear film break-up time, and corneal staining grades were recorded. In severe dry eye patients topical cyclosporine-A was prescribed and the results were evaluated.

GVHD was detected in 51 (23.4%) of 218 HSCT patients, 4 of whom died during follow-up. Thirty (63.8%) of the remaining 47 patients had chronic ocular GVHD and 4 patients with severe dry eye were treated with topical cyclosporine-A with a median follow-up of 12.1 months. Severe dry eye symptoms and findings significantly improved in 2 patients. However, 1 patient had to stop treatment due to side effects.

In children, chronic ocular GVHD is a common finding of GVHD after HSCT. Therefore, these patients should be examined periodically for dry eye.