Comparative Study of Pediatric Dry Eye in a Tertiary Care Hospital Among Children With and Without Ocular Infection History

Astha Mishra ¹, Smita Singh ¹, Nitesh Pradhan ²

⁰From Chitkara School of Health Sciences, Chitkara University, Punjab, India.

Journal of Pediatric Ophthalmology and Strabismus +

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December 2, 2025

View abstract on PubMed

Summary

Children with a history of eye infections have a higher prevalence and severity of dry eye disease. Previous ocular infections, like conjunctivitis, contribute to tear film instability and reduced tear production in school-aged children.

Area Of Science

Ophthalmology
Pediatric Eye Care
Dry Eye Disease Research

Background

Dry eye disease (DED) affects individuals of all ages, including children.
Ocular infections are a potential risk factor for developing DED.
Understanding DED prevalence in pediatric populations is crucial for timely diagnosis and management.

Purpose Of The Study

To compare the prevalence and severity of dry eye disease in children aged 6 to 12 years.
To investigate the impact of a history of ocular infections on DED in this age group.

Main Methods

A study screened 400 children aged 6-12 years at a pediatric eye clinic over six months.
Data collection involved the Ocular Surface Disease Index (OSDI) questionnaire, tear film break-up time (TBUT), and Schirmer I test.
Children were assessed for DED, with a focus on comparing those with and without a history of ocular infections.

Main Results

Overall, 37% of participants were diagnosed with DED.
Children with a history of ocular infections exhibited significantly lower tear film break-up time (TBUT) (6.3s ± 1.8s) compared to those without (8.9s ± 2.0s).
The history of ocular infection group also showed significantly reduced Schirmer I test results (9.2mm ± 2.4mm) versus the no history group (13.1mm ± 2.7mm), with P < .001 for both.

Conclusions

Dry eye disease is prevalent in school-aged children, particularly those with prior ocular infections.
Previous infections, including viral and bacterial conjunctivitis, are linked to tear film instability and decreased tear production.
History of ocular infections is a significant factor associated with dry eye disease severity in children.