Abstract
Purpose :
There are several reports on the dropout of contact lens use after the age of 35 years. One of the reason is discomfort. In addition, dry eye makes it difficult to wear contact lens for an extended period of time. The aim of the present study is to measure the magnitude of different inflammatory markers and compare them to clinical objective and subjective assessments in young adults.
Methods :
Fifty-four subjects in an age range between 24 and 39 years participated in the study. Inflammatory markers including ILRa, IL1b, IL6, IL8 and MMP-9 were measured. In addition, non-invasive tear break up time (NIKBUT), ocular surface disease questionnaire (OSDI), and standardized patient evaluation of eye dryness (SPEED) were performed. Multiple correlation analysis and ANOVA were performed to assess the presence of any correlation effects and significant difference based on gender.
Results :
NIKBUT was inversely correlated with IL-8 (r= -0.35, p=0.03) and SPEED (r= -0.52, p=0.02). There was no significant correlation between any other inflammatory markers and either subjective or objective assessments. When subjects were categorized based on gender, NIKBUT was lower in females (6.1secs) compared to males (8.9secs) (p=0.04). Similarly, interleukin IL1-b was lower in females compared to males (p<0.01). However, other inflammatory markers did not demonstrate significant difference based on gender.
Conclusions :
In young adults, tear-film instability, as noted by reduced NIKBUT, is associated with elevated levels of inflammatory marker, although not all inflammatory markers are affected. Females in this age groups, demonstrate increased levels of interleukin IL1-b and decreased NIKBUT.
This abstract was presented at the 2019 ARVO Annual Meeting, held in Vancouver, Canada, April 28 - May 2, 2019.