A COMPARITIVE STUDY OF CHANGES IN TEAR FILM FUNCTION IN NORMAL AND TYPE II DIABETIC SUBJECTS IN SOUTH INDIAN POPULATION

Abstract

This study was performed to investigate, the changes of tear film and ocular surface in diabetic patients by assessing the corneal sensitivity test, tear secretion test and comparing the results with those in a normal control group. The present study was carried out in K.M.C. Mangalore  in 100 eyes of fifty patients of Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus (Cases) and 100 eyes of fifty  healthy individual (Controls) . Corneal sensitivity, Tear film break up time, Rose bengal test and Schirmer test without topical anesthesia (total tear secretion test), and Schirmer test with topical anesthesia (basal tear secretion test) was measured. Results showed that corneal sensitivity was significantly lower (P < 0.001) in the diabetic group than in the control group. Tear film BUT was significantly shorter (P < 0.001) in the diabetic group than in the control group. Total and basal tear secretions were significantly lower (P < 0.001) in the diabetic group when compared to control group. The present study indicates that in patients with Type II diabetes, there is a decreased corneal sensitivity, decreased tear stability and secretion, suggesting an ocular surface disease. Early examination of the diabetic patients for the detection of the ocular surface disorders is indicated