Korean J Dermatol.  2012 Oct;50(10):855-859.

Tear Filim Changes and Ocular Surface Characteristics in Patients with Psoriasis Vulgaris

• Her Y
• Han SH
• Cho HJ
• Lim JW

Abstract

BACKGROUND
Psoriasis is associated with several extracutaneous manifestations. Signs and symptoms of eye may be subtle and overlooked.
OBJECTIVE
Our purpose was to identify tear film functions and ocular surface characteristics associated psoriasis.
METHODS
We examined 20 patients with psoriasis and 20 patients healthy volunteers. In addition to complete dermatological examination, tear film function, meibomian gland obstruction, Shirmer test, as well as conjunctival impression cytology grades and goblet cell density.
RESULTS
Patients with psoriasis had tear film break-up time of 7.7+/-3.1 seconds. The grade of fluorescein test in patients with psoriasis was significantly higher than the grades in controls. And in impression cytology patients group showed the higher grade of epithelial metaplasia and lower density of goblet cells. But The significant differences were not found in Shirmer test and meibomian gland obstruction.
CONCLUSION
Our findings showed that patients with psoriasis have high rate of dye eye disease. Dermatologists consider the possibility of ocular manifestations of patients with psoriasis and consultation with the ophthalmologists.

Keyword

Dry eye syndrome; Eye; Psoriasis

MeSH Terms

Dry Eye Syndromes
Eye
Eye Diseases
Fluorescein
Goblet Cells
Humans
Meibomian Glands
Metaplasia
Psoriasis
Tears
Fluorescein