DR. NAVNEET CHHABDA

DR. AJIT KAMALAKAR JOSHI

Abstract

Background:A stable precorneal tear film forms refracting surface,provides cornea nourishment and protects it from infection.Various factors alter tear film stability causing dry eye disease.The study aimed to assess tear film status of patients attending the Ophthalmology OPD.Method:Patients presenting with symptoms of dry eye disease were given McMonnies questionnaire.Those with questionnaire score>10 were evaluated by slit lamp examination,Schirmer I test,TBUT test.Results:100patients with questionnaire score>10 were evaluated further.Of this,68.97% females &45.24% males had Schirmer I test <10mm.82.22%rural & 40%semiurban patients had Schirmer I test<10mm.75%VDU users,69.57%housewives,89.475%farmers had Schirmer I <10mm.Statistically significant association was seen between questionnaire score and Schirmer test<10mm.Conclusion:Females & patients aged 31-50,rural patients & farmers had more risk of dry eye.McMonnies questionnaire proved to be a sensitive tool to aid in diagnosis.