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[Diagnostic value of occult haemolacria]
1Belarusian State Medical University, Minsk, Belarus.
Vestnik Oftalmologii
|July 8, 2022
Summary
This study found that microscopic tear examination is more sensitive for detecting occult haemolacria, especially in women with endometriosis. Hormonal changes during the menstrual cycle influence tear composition, with erythrocytes appearing more frequently in the follicular phase.
Area of Science:
- Ophthalmology
- Gynecology
- Biochemistry
Background:
- Occult haemolacria, the presence of blood in tears without visible signs, is not well understood.
- Hormonal fluctuations during the menstrual cycle may impact tear composition.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate occult haemolacria in women.
- To compare the diagnostic accuracy of microscopic and chemical tear examination methods.
- To explore the association between occult haemolacria and endometriosis.
Main Methods:
- Tear samples were collected from 72 women (aged 18-46).
- Samples were analyzed using both microscopic examination and chemical reagent test strips.
- Data was analyzed considering the follicular and luteal phases of the menstrual cycle and endometriosis diagnosis.
Main Results:
- Erythrocytes were detected in tears more frequently during the follicular phase (59.1%) compared to the luteal phase (40.9%).
- The microscopic method showed higher sensitivity (30.6% blood detection) than the chemical method (16.7%).
- A significant association was found between occult haemolacria and endometriosis, with higher erythrocyte detection in patients with the condition.
Conclusions:
- Menstrual cycle hormones affect tear composition, increasing epithelial cells in the luteal phase and erythrocytes in the follicular phase.
- Occult haemolacria in women with endometriosis may indicate extragenital endometriosis.
- Microscopic examination is superior for detecting occult haemolacria and provides additional cellular information, while chemical testing is suitable for screening.
