Dry eye measurements provide varied results

SEATTLE – Data showed that several dry eye measurements provided inconsistent results, according to research presented here at Optometry's Meeting.

"Without reliable diagnostic tests, dry eye disease will continue to be subjectively evaluated by researchers as well as clinicians," the researchers wrote. "Current techniques provide data that vary not only within a particular visit, but also throughout the day."

Researchers measured dry eye symptoms throughout the day with three tests: tear film break-up time (TFBUT) using fluorescein, the Non-Invasive Keratograph Break-Up Time (NIKBUT) with an Oculus Keratograph FM (Oculus) and the Ocular Surface Disease Index (OSDI).

Results demonstrated a variation in measurements.

The researchers reported that a majority of patients had NIKBUT and TFBUT values in the same category as the OSDI in the morning and afternoon.

"However, the results of the evening measurements of TFBUT agreed with the OSDI in the minority of patients compared to the majority of patients using the NIKBUT." – by Chelsea Frajerman Pardes

Reference:

Gorder M, et al. Diurnal variation in TFBUT and NIKBUT in patients with and without dry eye. Poster presented at: 118th Annual AOA Congress & 45th Annual AOSA Conference – Optometry’s Meeting. June 26, 2015; Seattle, WA.

Disclosures: The authors report no relevant financial disclosures.