Meibomian Gland Dysfunction (MGD), as Diagnosed by Non-Contact Infrared Meibography, in Dogs with Ocular Surface Disorders (OSD): A Retrospective Study.

Abstract

Background: Meibomian gland dysfunction (MGD) is one of the possible conditions underlying ocular surface disorders (OSD). Prevalence of MGD in dogs affected by OSD has not yet been reported. We aimed to evaluate the prevalence of MGD among OSD canine patients, which had been assessed by non-contact infrared meibography and interferometry, and to identify MGD associated factors that might guide its diagnosis. Medical records of canine patients examined for OSD between 2016 and 2019 were reviewed. The frequency of MGD was evaluated within different categories (skull conformation, gender, eye and STT-1). The putative MGD risk factors and frequency of MGD within grades of interferometry were evaluated in a regression analysis model and reported as odd ratios (ORs).Results: One hundred fifty eyes from 81 dogs with OSD were included with median age 75 months (range 3-192) and female representation with 52%. MGD was present in 70% of the examined eyes. MGD risk was higher in males [OR adj = 3.015 (95% CI: 1.395 - 6.514) ( P = 0.005)] and older patients [OR adj = 1.207 (95% CI: 1.081 - 1.348) ( P = 0.001)]. No significant differences were found between left and right eyes ( P = 0.66) or between the two types of skull conformation ( P = 0.477) and MGD presence. MGD was associated to the lowest LL thickness, as assessed by interferometry (grade 0) [OR= 16.00 (95% CI: 2.104 - 121.68) ( P < 0.001)]. STT values were not significantly associated with the presence of MGD ( P > 0.05).Conclusions: MGD is a common underlying pathology in OSD. Being male and higher age are risk factors for MGD. An interferometry grade 0 may guide OSD diagnosis towards MGD.

Evaluation of ocular surface parameters in dogs with and without meibomian gland dysfunction

“…2 In veterinary medicine, some studies have utilised meibography to assess gland atrophy in dogs. 3,39 However, no study has evaluated the relationship between meibomian gland atrophy detected by meibography and lid margin abnormalities seen in MGD. MGD starts with hyperkeratinisation of the lid margin.…”

“…2 Although reliable statistical data on the prevalence of MGD in dogs are lacking, 70% of ocular surface disease cases are reportedly affected by MGD. 3 The typical diagnostic methods for MGD include the evaluation of lid margin abnormalities such as thickening, irregularity, displacement of the mucocutaneous junction and plugged meibomian gland orifices. [4][5][6][7][8] However, in the early stage of MGD, lid margin abnormalities may not be detected.…”

A Case of Sebaceous Adenitis and Concurrent Meibomian Gland Dysfunction in a Dog

“…MGD is a chronic, diffused abnormality of the MGs that may result in TF alteration, eye irritation, inflammation and OS disease [ 3 ]. MGD is a common underlying pathology in dogs with OS disorders [ 4 ]. These signs were apparent, in combination with dermatological alterations, in the case here described.…”

“…These signs were apparent, in combination with dermatological alterations, in the case here described. Several factors contribute to MGD pathogenesis, such as an increase in meibum viscosity, inflammatory mediators, bacterial lipid-degrading enzymes, hormonal changes, and topical or systemic medications [ 4 , 5 , 6 ]. In the case here presented, histopathology of MGs was not performed because the excision of eyelids is an invasive procedure, and no inflammatory infiltrate similar to that found in sebaceous adenitis was demonstrated, but it was the most likely differential.…”

Factors Influencing the Effectiveness of Intense Pulsed Light for Meibomian Gland Dysfunction

“…Identifying the factors in uencing the effectiveness of IPL could provide some experience reference and practice foundation for ophthalmologists. As previously reported, age and the male sex are the most common factors contributing to the prevalence of MGD [11,12]. Long-term video display terminal (VDT) usage has been reported as a vital factor that has a signi cant impact on MGD [13].…”