Publication:

Dry eye syndrome in patients of diabetes with and without diabetic retinopathy

Background Diabetes Mellitus (DM) can lead to Diabetic retinopathy. Dry Eye Syndrome is commonly seen in diabetic patients. The purpose of this study was assessment of dry eye in patients with and without diabetic retinopathy.

Methods The study was conducted in the department of Ophthalmology and Rural and Urban centres of Community Medicine, Narayan Medical College and Hospital, Sasaram, Bihar. All cases of Type 2 diabetes mellitus over six months period were considered for the study. The diabetic patients were divided into two groups, one with diabetic retinopathy and others without diabetic retinopathy. All patients were subjected to McMonnie’s questionnaire and clinical evaluation including tear film studies like Schirmer’s test and Tear Film Break Up Time (TBUT).

Results 60 diabetic patients were enrolled for the study, 30 had evidence of diabetic retinopathy while 30 had no evidence. The most common dry eye symptom reported was foreign body sensation (96.7%). All Signs of dry eye disorder were found more commonly in patients with diabetic retinopathy as compared to those without diabetic retinopathy. Mcmonnie’s scores correlates well with both Schirmer’s basic secretion test (BST) and TBUT.

Conclusions Dry eye syndrome must be diagnosed in diabetic patients. Periodic screening of diabetic patients should be carried out to evaluate diabetic retinopathy and its complications.