Assessing the effect of anti-glaucoma drug on corneal morphology and tear film function

Abstract

To assess the effect of anti-glaucoma drug on corneal morphology and tear film function. This is a prospective comparative study between two groups. 50 eyes of 25 patients using one or more topical anti glaucoma drugs for at least 6 months or more and Group 2- 50 eyes of 25 normal subjects as controls who were not having any ocular problems. Both groups were similar regarding age and gender characteristics. Demographic information were obtained from patient’s medical records. Comprehensive ocular examination like Intraocular pressure (IOP), Tear breakup time (TBUT), Schirmer’s II test (with anaesthesia), Central corneal thickness (CCT), Endothelial cell count (specular microscopy), Corneal staining were done for both the groups. All 50 patients (100eyes) included in the study and completed all the tests parameter involved in the study. Mann-Whitney U value for IOP is (p=o.oo1), CCT is (p=0.002), Endothelial cell count is (p=0.001), Schirmer’s II is(p=0.001) and TBUT is (p=0.001), respectively and all this were statistically significant. For corneal staining Fisher's Exact Test value is 19.874 (p=0.001) is statistically significant. For CCT compared with the different diagnosis the Chi-Square value is 36.915 (p=0.001) is statistically significant. For Endothelial cell count compared with the different diagnosis the Chi-Square value is 11.876 (p=0.003) is statistically significant. CCT and Endothelial cell count was more in Ocular hypertension as compared to the other diagnosis. Patients using anti-glaucoma drugs showed 64% mild to moderate and 20% severe dryness in the eyes. CCT and Endothelial cell count was more in Ocular hypertension as compared to the other diagnosis. Increased CCT may give an artificially high IOP and must be considered when developing a treatment approach for patients with ocular hypertension. Therefore, necessary to have complete evaluation of tear film and cornea while using the anti-glaucoma medication from long time. So that we can prescribe lubricating drops with the anti-glaucoma drugs.