Evaluation of dryness in external ocular surface in rheumatoid arthritis using impression cytology

ABSTRACT

To evaluate the degree of dryness in external ocular surface and any cellular damage in patients with rheumatoid arthritis using impression cytology technique. Forty female patients with rheumatoid arthritis were included in this study, all were from Ain Shams University hospital, out-patient clinic and of the same social class and age group [45-50 years]. Impression cytology was done bilateral in each patient and the finding were classified according to Tseng [1985]. Any other cytological changes found were recorded. Dry eye was found to be a common finding in all, our cases. Increase in severity of ocular surface damage was found in periods of exacerbation of the disease, which was different from one patient to another. The prevalence of mucousstrands was obvious. Dry eye is a common finding in Rheumatoid arthritis patient. Ophthalmological examination in these cases must be a routine to avoid ocular complications. Impression cytology is a useful tool in diagnosis and prognosis of dry eye