Abstract

Study Design: Observational, Prospective study
Purpose: To objectively document dry eye status in patients undergoing chemotherapy for systemic malignancies planned for cataract surgery
Methods: Case series in 35 patients (70 eyes) scheduled for cataract surgery and have undergone chemotherapy for any systemic malignancy. Schirmer test, non-invasive tear film breakup time (NIBUT), meibomian gland imaging, tear film interferometry and patient questionnaire were administered following atleast 3 months of systemic chemotherapy. Dry eye severity was documented and analysed.
Results: There was reduction in values of both Schirmer and NIBUT and meibomian gland drop out on gland imaging in patients who have received chemotherapy.
Conclusion: Use of chemotherapeutic agents predisposes to reduction in meibomian gland density and alters quality of tear film resulting in ocular surface symptoms.