Abstract

Background:Diabetic patients might exhibit dry eye symptoms probably due to neuropathy,
metabolic dysfunction, or abnormal lacrimal secretions. The present study was conducted
to assess prevalence of dry eye diseases in diabetic patients.
Materials & Methods:92 diabetic patients of both genders were enrolled. Ocular
examinations, fasting blood sugar (FBS), postprandial blood sugar, and glycosylated
hemoglobin estimation (HbA1c) were recorded. Dry eye patient was diagnosed with the
help of slit-lamp examination, Schirmer’s test, tear film break-up time (BUT), and Rose
Bengal staining technique. Gradation of dry eye was done by the following standard
protocol.
Results: Dry eye was present in 70 and negative in 22. The mean duration of diabetes was
11.4 years in positive cases and 5.6 years in negative cases. The difference was significant
(P< 0.05).Grade was mild in 32, moderate in 20 and severe in 18 patients. The difference
was significant (P< 0.05). Age group (years)<50 years had 24, 50-60 years had 30 and >60
years comprised of 16 patients. Blood sugarcontrol (HbA1c) was good in 12, fair in 10,
action suggested in 28 and poor in 20 patients. The difference was significant (P< 0.05).
Conclusion: There was high prevalence of dry eyes in diabetic patients. Grade of dry eyes
was mild, moderate and severe.