Global View of Ocular Parameter Changes Induced by a Single Hemodialysis Session

Area of Science:

• Ophthalmology
• Nephrology
• Internal Medicine

Background:

• Hemodialysis (HD) is a vital treatment for end-stage renal disease (ESRD), but it can cause adverse effects, including ocular complications.
• Understanding the immediate impact of HD on eye health is crucial for managing ESRD patients.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess the effects of a single hemodialysis session on ophthalmologic findings in ESRD patients.
• To investigate correlations among ocular changes and between ocular and systemic parameters post-HD.

Main Methods:

• A single-center, cross-sectional observational study involving 32 ESRD patients undergoing HD.
• Assessment of anterior and posterior ocular segment parameters and systemic parameters before and after a single HD session.

Main Results:

• Significant improvements in best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA) and increases in lens thickness (LT), axial length (AXL), and macular thickness (MT) were observed.
• Decreases in tear break-up time (TBUT), Schirmer test results, anterior chamber depth (ACD), and choroidal thickness (CT) were significant.
• Body weight loss was the sole significant systemic change; correlations were found among ocular parameters but limited between ocular and systemic changes.

Conclusions:

• Hemodialysis significantly affects both anterior and posterior ocular segments in ESRD patients.
• Interconnected ocular changes suggest a complex, interrelated response to the hemodialysis process.
• Further research is needed to elucidate the long-term implications of these HD-induced ocular changes.