Dry eye common in early GO

According to recent data, dry eye has been found to be common in patients with early Graves Ophthalmology (GO).

Dr Vasilis Achtsidis et al., Attikon University Hospital, University of Athens, Greece, evaluated a total of 52 eyes of 26 patients with early GO and 37 control subjects. GO diagnosis was based on the European Group on Graves Orbitopathy consensus statement. The team also calculated Clinical Activity Score (CAS) and Werner-NOSPECS Score, as well as corneal sensitivity using a Cochet-Bonnet aesthesiometer.

Of the participants included in the study, 67.8% with early GO and 13.5% of healthy controls presented with ocular surface dryness. Mean Schirmer test scores were significantly lower in GO patients, compared to controls and these results correlated with CAS. Tear film break up time was lower in patients by 5.46 seconds and 5.74 seconds in the right and left eyes, respectively.

Dry eye is common in GO, despite the absence of apparent exophthalmos, and based on the results the team concluded that there was an association with CAS as well as reduced corneal sensitivity.

To read the abstract please visit the European Journal of Ophthalmology.