Risk Factors for Meibomian Gland Disease Assessed by Meibography.

Area of Science:

• Ophthalmology
• Ocular Surface Disease
• Meibomian Gland Dysfunction

Background:

• Meibomian gland disease (MGD) is a common cause of ocular discomfort and visual impairment.
• Understanding risk factors for MGD is crucial for effective management and prevention.
• Meibography allows for in-vivo assessment of meibomian gland structure and dropout.

Purpose of the Study:

• To identify significant risk factors associated with meibomian gland (MG) loss.
• To investigate changes observed in meibography in relation to MGD.
• To explore the correlation between ocular surface disease symptoms and MG structural integrity.

Main Methods:

• A retrospective, cross-sectional study of 189 patients undergoing ocular surface disease evaluation.
• Ocular history, lifestyle questionnaires (including makeup use, cosmetic procedures, screen time, contact lens habits), and SPEED II questionnaire administered.
• Meibography performed to assess MG dropout and structural changes, with grading using meiboscores.

Main Results:

• Older age (>45 years) was a significant risk factor for increased MG dropout (p < 0.01).
• Contact lens wear exceeding 20 years was significantly associated with MG loss (p < 0.05).
• No significant association found between eye makeup use, blepharoplasty history, or screen time and MG loss. SPEED II scores did not correlate with meiboscores (p = 0.75).

Conclusions:

• Advanced age and prolonged contact lens use are significant risk factors for meibomian gland dropout.
• The study highlights a disconnect between patient-reported symptoms (SPEED II) and objective signs of meibomian gland structure.
• Further research may explore the complex interplay of aging, environmental factors, and ocular surface health in MGD pathogenesis.