Abstract
Purpose: :
To investigate the relationship of aging on pharmacologic pupil dilation and pupillary marginal tears.
Methods: :
A sequential population of 100 patients from 2 centers without prior surgery was evaluated after pupillary dilation with standard dilations drops (2.5% phenylephrine and 1% tropicamide.) Demographic information was recorded. Pupillary diameter was measured in millimeters using the slit lamp caliper. The number of pupillary margin tears was graded.
Results: :
Scatter plot analysis of age versus dilation was performed. An inverse relationship was found between dilation capability and age.
Conclusions: :
The results of this study has specific implications in the management of the aging patient in the ophthalmologic practice. Pupillary dilational potential has a direct impact on the ability to examine these patients and the ability to perform surgery safely. Proposed mechanisms explaining the relationship between the capability of pupillary dilation and tears as it relates to age are discussed.