Monitoring Dry Eye Disease in Patients with Sjogren’s Syndrome

Methods for monitoring dry eye disease in patients with Sjogren’s syndrome in optometric practices appears to vary by practice setting, according to a retrospective chart review involving 123 individuals. 

Participants were from 6 optometric practices in North America. Investigators compared testing type and methodology. Among the results: 

• Dry eye disease symptoms were noted in 98% of cases. 
• Meibomian gland dysfunction, corneal staining with fluorescein, and anterior blepharitis were each noted in ~three-fourths of cases. 
• Private practitioners were more likely to use symptom questionnaires and grading scales.
• They were also more likely to describe anterior blepharitis. 
• Academic clinicians were more likely to note tear film break-up time and tear meniscus height.

The authors noted a need to create testing standards.

Carrery, Barnett M, Edmonds C, et al.  Customary practices in the monitoring of dry eye disease in Sjogren’s syndrome.  J Optom. 2018 Oct – Dec;11(4):232-241. doi: 10.1016/j.optom.2018.05.001.