Clinical Study on Ocular Manifestations in Patients with Psoriasis, in Chennai, India

Abstract

BACKGROUND We wanted to determine the prevalence of ocular manifestations assess the frequency and distribution of potential sight threatening complications in patients with psoriasis. METHODS This is a non interventional, observational hospital based study conducted at a tertiary health care centre which included 105 patients with psoriasis. A background history was taken regarding the duration of psoriasis and treatment taken. The prevalence of ocular manifestations were assessed by detailed ocular examination which involved the best corrected visual acuity using Snellen’s chart, examination of the anterior chamber using slit lamp, examination of the fundus, intraocular pressure measurement, dry eye evaluation including Schirmer’s test, tear film break up time test, and Rose Bengal stain test. RESULTS In total 105 patients with psoriasis were enrolled in this study. Among the 105 patients whose 210 eyes were examined, 77 % had psoriasis vulgaris, 14 % had scalp psoriasis, and 9 % had palmoplantar psoriasis. Among the 105 patients, 38 patients had symptomatic ocular manifestations. Out of the 38 % patients with symptomatic ocular manifestations, we found that 28 %, 25 %, 17 %, 2 % of the patients manifested with evaporative dry eye, blepharoconjunctivitis, redness and episcleritis respectively. CONCLUSIONS In our study, ocular manifestations were even seen among the asymptomatic patients. Hence a multi-disciplinary approach including effective screening and early detection of ocular manifestations followed by prompt treatment is essential to reduce the morbidity in patients with psoriasis. KEY WORDS Psoriasis, Dry Eye, Uveitis