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Association between rheumatic diseases and glaucoma risk: a systematic review and meta-analysis of 5.7 million
Xu-Lu Zhang1, Yi Cai1, Zhi-Qiang Zhang2
1Qiqihar Medical University, Qiqihar, Heilongjiang, China.
Purpose:
Some studies suggest that rheumatic diseases (RD) may be associated with the development of glaucoma; however, findings remain inconsistent. We therefore conducted a meta-analysis to estimate the incidence of glaucoma and assess its risk among patients with RD, to inform evidence-based diagnostic decision-making.
Methods:
Following a pre-registered PROSPERO protocol (CRD42024604067), we performed a systematic search of PubMed, the Cochrane Library, and Embase. Pooled incidence estimates, odds ratios (ORs), and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were calculated using RevMan 5.4 and STATA 15.0.
Results:
Eighteen studies comprising 5,766,143 participants were included. RD was significantly associated with glaucoma. The pooled incidence of glaucoma among patients with RD was 4% (rate = 0.04; 95% CI, 0.03-0.06; P < 0.001). By study design, incidence/prevalence estimates were 3% in cohort studies, 9% in case-control studies, and 8% in cross-sectional studies. Compared with the general population, individuals with RD have a 66% higher risk of developing glaucoma (OR = 1.66; 95% CI, 1.15-2.40; P = 0.007).
Conclusion:
Both the incidence and risk of glaucoma are elevated in patients with RD. These findings highlight the importance of increased ophthalmologic surveillance in this population.
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