Evaluation of Tear Volume and Outer Ocular Manifestation of Rheumatoid Arthritis

Abstract

Abstract

This study was conducted in Khartoum State in Omdurman Military Hospital in the period from Januarys to March 2015.

The main objective of the study was to investigate the tear volume and to evaluate the symptoms and signs of the outer eye in rheumatoid arthritis patients.

Eighty patients who have been diagnosed of rheumatoid arthritis (160 eyes) attended Omdorman Military Hospital (Orthopedic Clinics) were included in this study; ocular history was taken for each subject. Quantity of tear volume was measured using schirmer test paper and visual acuity was measured. Outer eye was examined by pen light torch and magnifier loop. Examinations, measurements and general information were taken using a data form.

The age of the patients was ranged between 40-70; the greater group were in the range of 40-50 years (43%).

The results showed that most of the sample had dryness in their eyes (73.75%), and only 26.25% had normal tear volume. Most of the patients had standard vision without or with correction.

The most frequent signs in the outer eye were redness, and tearing. 27.5% of the patients showed normal outer eye.

Keywords: rheumatoid arthritis, dry eye, outer eye, Schirmer test.