Correlation between Dry Eye Syndrome and Multiple Sclerosis Patients’ Disability: A Cross-Sectional Study

Abstract

The aim of the current study was to assess the rate of dry eye disorder in MS patients and evaluation of its relationship with the severity of disability in these patients. Methods: The present study was a cross-sectional study performed on 49 MS patients and 74 healthy controls. There was no significant difference between the two groups in terms of age and sex. All MS patients referred to Nikokari hospital in Tabriz were included in the study. All subjects completed the DESS (Dry Eye Questionnaire and Scoring System) questionnaire. Schirmer 1 & 2, TBUT (Tear Break-Up Time) and TMH (Tear Meniscus Height) tests were also performed on them. To determine the severity of disability in patients with MS, their disability was rated by a neurologist based on the EDSS (Expanded Disability Status Scale) questionnaire. Results: The results of the Schirmer 1 and 2 TMH and TBUT tests showed that the number of subjects with positive results was significantly higher in the MS group compared to control group. In terms of DESS, the number of subjects with high and moderate dry eye severity in MS group was significantly higher than control group. Spearman's correlation results showed that in MS patients with EDSS score above 4, there is a significant relationship between increasing disability and positive Schirmer 1 and 2, TMH and DESS tests.