Conjunctival Impression Cytology, Ocular Surface, and Tear-Film Changes in Patients Treated With Systemic Isotretinoin

• DOI: 10.1097/ico.0b013e318183a396
• Publication Date: 2008-12-16T08:19:42Z
• Authors: Aylin Karalezli; Mehmet Borazan; Dilek D Altinors; Recep Dursun; Halil Kiyici; Yonca A Akova
• Keywords: Isotretinoin; Meibomian gland; Rose bengal; Blepharitis; Discontinuation

Purpose: To evaluate the ocular surface changes and tear-film functions in patients treated with systemic isotretinoin. Methods: Fifty subjects 0.8 mg/kg oral isotretinoin were enrolled this prospective clinical trial. All underwent a full ophthalmoscopic examination before, during, after treatment Ocular of cell content conjunctival epithelium evaluated by impression cytology using Schirmer test, anesthetized tear breakup time, rose bengal staining. Subjective complaints scored an Surface Disease Index questionnaire. Results: There no significant differences observed average test scores for or treatment. Mean time decreased significantly during (P < 0.001). scores, staining increased 0.05, P 0.001 0.001, respectively). Blepharitis was seen 36% patients. abnormal findings disappeared 1 month cessation Conclusions: Conjunctival epithelial cells, basal secretion, quality are markedly affected (0.8 mg/kg). adverse effects generally not serious reversible discontinuation.