Incidence and Risk Factors for Ocular Surface Disease in Patients Undergoing Glaucoma Medication: A Retrospective Analysis

Abstract

This research aims to examine the prevalence and the predisposing factors of Ocular Surface Disease (OSD) in glaucoma patients on long-term medication in the Department of Ophthalmology. The necessity of the presented research is explained in the context of the high rate of OSD among glaucoma patients, which negatively affects their quality of life and adherence to treatment. Major discoveries include the decrease in IOP after OSD treatment and a high proportion of the participants who had cataract surgery performed on them. The analysis reveals that the preservative agents in contact lenses including but not limited to benzalkonium chloride (BAK) are significant causal factors of OSD. The study reinforces the importance of preservative-free glaucoma medications and the necessity of the use of composite care models that would improve patients’ prognosis and their adherence to therapy. Further, more extended follow-up and patient-depicted outcomes should be conducted in future to enhance the consequences of the treatment plans.