Abstract
Purpose This study assesses the diluted Schirmer method’s effectiveness in collecting tears from dry eye syndrome patients, aiming to identify the most suitable tear collection technique for them. Methods A prospective study. Tear samples were collected from patients with dry eye syndrome and healthy individuals using two methods: (1) Direct Schirmer Method: Schirmer strips were directly inserted into the eye to collect tears. (2) Diluted Schirmer Method: After instilling physiological saline into the eye and waiting for 30 s to ensure thorough mixing with tears, Schirmer strips were used for collection. Tear samples from both groups were analyzed and compared for total protein and cytokine levels (IL-1β, IL-6, IL-8, TNF-α). Results (1) The study included 32 participants: 16 with dry eye syndrome (4 males, 12 females, average age 34.92 ± 10.13 years) and 16 healthy controls (5 males, 11 females, average age 32.25 ± 9.87 years). (2) The diluted Schirmer method produced a significantly larger tear volume compared to the direct method (p < 0.05), with lower Visual Analogue Scale (VAS) scores indicating less discomfort (p < 0.05). (3) The average total protein content of the two groups was 51.70 ± 3.166 ng measured by Direct Schirmer method, and the average total protein content of the Diluted Schirmer method was 50.05 ± 3.263 ng. There was no statistical difference between the two groups. (t = 1.051, p = 0.3098) (4) The concentrations of total tear protein and various cytokines measured by both methods were higher in the dry eye group compared to the normal group, with statistically significant differences (p < 0.05). Both methods reflected consistent changes in tear protein profiles. Conclusion The diluted Schirmer method can comfortably collect an adequate volume of tear samples in a short time and consistently reflect changes in tear proteins, making it an effective method for tear collection in patients with dry eye syndrome.
Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
