Non-invasive evaluation of meibomian gland morphology and tear film and anterior segment parameters in women with polycystic ovarian syndrome

Abstract

Purpose: To compare the meibomian glands (MG), non-invasive tear film break-up time (NITBUT), and corneal and anterior segment measurements in patients with polycystic ovary syndrome and healthy women. Methods: The study included 66 polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) patients and 42 healthy volunteers aged 18-35 years. The first and average NITBUT, MG loss, mean keratometry (Km), central (CCT) and thinnest (TCT) corneal thicknesses, anterior chamber depth (ACD), anterior chamber volume (ACV), irido-corneal angle (ICA), corneal volume (CV) and Ocular Surface Disease Index (OSDI) results were analyzed. Results: The mean MG loss values were 29.9 +/- 11.9 and 20.8 +/- 11.0 in the PCOS and control groups, respectively (p < 0.001). MG loss (meiboscale >= 1) was determined in 64 (96.9%) eyes in the PCOS group and in 36 (85.7%) eyes in the control group. There was no significant difference between the groups in respect of NITBUT, OSDI, Km, CCT, TCT, ACD, ACV, ICA and CV values (p > 0.05, for all). Conclusion: MG loss is a physiological process which is distinct in PCOS patients, but does not cause tear film alterations. Further studies are needed to show the contributing factors of MGD in PCOS patients.