Dry Eyes Related Quality of Life in Elderly Patients with Meibomian Gland Dysfunction at Zagazig University Hospitals

Abstract

Meibomian gland dysfunction (MGD) can result in indirect symptoms such as dry eyes as well as noticeable manifestations on the eyelids, affecting vision and quality of life. The study's aim is to assess dry eyes related quality of Life among elderly MGD patients at Zagazig university hospitals. Design: descriptive study. Methods: Demographic characteristics, Meibomian gland dysfunction (MGD) Questionnaire, Ocular Surface Disease Index (OSDI) Questionnaire, and Dry Eye–Related Quality-of-Life Score (DEQS) Questionnaire were available for 100 elderly patients and collected from ophthalmology outpatient clinic in Zagazig University Hospitals. Results: The score of mean subjective dry eye symptoms was 21.69±9.66. The prevalence of moderate meibomian gland symptom frequency and intensity were 34% and 37%, respectively. Overall, 28% (12.86±6.49) and 40 % (12.86±6.49) of patients had moderate DEQS frequency and severity respectively. Dry eye symptoms of meibomian gland dysfunction were significant positive predictors of DEQS (R2=0.78, P<.05). DEQS score was significantly corelated with OSDI and MGD (P<0.01). Conclusion: Dry eye and meibomian gland symptom (frequency and severity) were associated with poorer quality of life as well as older age. There is an urgent need to mainstream public education programs on eyelid health, dry eye disease, and how it affects older adults' daily lives.