Meibomian Gland Dysfunction (MGD) and Tear Cytokines after Cataract Surgery according to Preoperative Meibomian Gland Status

Abstract

PurposeTo investigate the possible mechanisms by which cataract surgery aggravates meibomian gland dysfunction (MGD), we evaluated the changes in tear cytokines and ocular surface parameters after cataract surgery according to the preoperative MGD grade.MethodsFifty patients who underwent cataract surgery were enrolled and classified into two groups: Group I had no or minimal MGD, and group II had grade 2–4 MGD. Ocular surface parameters were measured, including tear film break‐up time (TBUT), Schirmer I test, ocular surface staining, and Ocular Surface Disease Index (OSDI), and tear cytokine levels were measured.ResultsIn group II, preoperative MGD grade, ocular surface staining, TBUT, and OSDI were worse and mean interleukin (IL)‐2, IL‐6, and TNF‐α levels were higher than those of group I. MGD and ocular surface parameters were worsened to a greater degree after surgery in group II than in group I (P < 0.050). In group II, IL‐6 and TNF‐α levels significantly increased at postoperative 1 month, and there were significant correlations between changes in ocular surface parameters and tear cytokines (IL‐2, IL‐6, and TNFα; P < 0.050).ConclusionsThe extent to which the MGD grade was aggravated following cataract surgery differed based on preoperative MGD grade. In patients with definite MGD, which was associated with high cytokine levels, an increase of tear cytokines indicated an aggravation of severe MGD after cataract surgery. Preoperative MGD and ocular surface status should be carefully evaluated.