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Decreased basal tear turnover in patients with untreated primary open-angle glaucoma
E V Kuppens1, J A van Best, C C Sterk
1Department of Ophthalmology, Leiden University Hospital, The Netherlands.
American Journal of Ophthalmology
|July 1, 1995
Summary
Untreated primary open-angle glaucoma is linked to reduced basal tear turnover, unlike ocular hypertension. This finding suggests a potential cause for dry eye symptoms in glaucoma patients.
Area of Science:
- Ophthalmology
- Tear Film Dynamics
- Glaucoma Research
Background:
- Primary open-angle glaucoma (POAG) and ocular hypertension (OHT) are leading causes of irreversible blindness.
- Tear film stability is crucial for ocular surface health and visual function.
- The relationship between basal tear turnover and these conditions is not fully understood.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate whether untreated POAG or OHT is associated with impaired basal tear turnover.
- To compare basal tear turnover rates in patients with POAG, OHT, and healthy controls.
Main Methods:
- Basal tear turnover was measured using fluorophotometry.
- The study included 18 patients with newly detected, untreated POAG and 29 patients with untreated OHT.
- Results were compared to 27 age-matched control subjects.
Main Results:
- Basal tear turnover was significantly lower (22-27%) in POAG patients compared to OHT patients and controls (P = .0007 and P = .001, respectively).
- No significant difference in tear turnover was observed between OHT patients and controls (P = .4).
- Tear turnover decreased with increasing vertical or horizontal cup/disk ratios in POAG patients (P = .004 and P = .008).
Conclusions:
- POAG, but not OHT, is associated with impaired basal tear turnover.
- Decreased basal tear turnover may contribute to dry eye symptoms in POAG patients, independent of glaucoma medication.
- This suggests a potential dual etiology for dry eye in glaucoma: the disease itself and its treatment.