Refractive error detection in dry eye disease

Background: Dry eye disease (DED) is a prevalent ocular surface disorder that can influence visual performance and refractive measurements. Early detection of refractive errors in patients with varying degrees of DED may facilitate appropriate management and reduce visual morbidity. Objective: To evaluate refractive error detection patterns in patients with different severities of dry eye disease. Methods: A retrospective cross-sectional study was conducted on 50 patients, stratified into three groups: no dryness (n=16), mild-to-moderate dryness (n=18), and severe dryness (n=15). Clinical and biochemical parameters including age, gender, BMI, blood pressure, fasting blood sugar (FBS), HbA1c, hemoglobin, and cholesterol levels were compared. Statistical significance was assessed using appropriate tests, with a p-value <0.05 considered significant. Results: The mean age was significantly higher in the severe dryness group (59.1 ± 5.2 years) compared to patients without dryness (48.2 ± 5.8 years, p=0.037). Female gender was more prevalent in mild-to-moderate dryness (24%) compared to severe dryness (4%) (p<0.001). Higher fasting blood sugar (170.5 ± 82.5 mg/dL, p<0.001) and HbA1c levels (8.3 ± 2.1%, p<0.001) were observed in severe dryness patients. Hemoglobin levels were significantly lower in mild-to-moderate and severe dryness groups compared to those without dryness (p<0.001). No significant differences were noted in BMI, systolic or diastolic blood pressure, or cholesterol. Conclusion: Increasing severity of dry eye disease is associated with older age, poor glycemic control, and lower hemoglobin levels, which may influence refractive error detection. Incorporating systemic metabolic assessment in patients with DED may improve refractive accuracy and visual outcomes.