Dr. Nilamadhab Pradhan, Dr. Sumita Mohapatra, Dr. Sikha Misra, Dr. Rakesh Betdur
AIM- To study the effect of smoking on ocular surface and tear film in chronic smokers.
METHODS- Prospective study (Apr15-Mar 16) of 104 eyes of 52 chronic smokers (>1 pack daily>10years) study group(SG) and 100 eyes of 50 healthy nonsmokers(age matched) control group satisfied inclusion criteria and enrolled at RIO Eastern Odisha.OSDI questionnaire was given.The ocular surface was examined by measuring the tear film break up time(TBUT),surface staining with fluorescein,corneal sensitivity,schirmer test ,conjuctival impression cytology.
RESULTS-The SG showed significantly lower corneal sensitivity,TBUT(p<.05) higher superficial punctuate keratopathy(p<.05) and OSDI.Schirmer test results were almost similar in both groups.Impression cytology showed significantly lower goblet cells and squamous metaplasia in SG.
CONCLUSION-Smoking results in significant alteration in ocular surface, tear film instability leading to ocular discomfort and thus affect the quality of life of patients.