Serum androgen level in association with dry eye in elderly male and postmenopausal female patients

Abstract

Purpose The aim of this study was to assess the association between objective and subjective indicators of dry eye syndrome (DES) and androgen level in elderly patients. Patients and methods This is a comparative cross-sectional study that included 80 Egyptian patients with DES. They were divided into two groups: Group A which consisted of 40 postmenopausal females and elderly males, and Group B which included 40 males and females under the age of 40 years. Each patient provided a medical history. The dry eye symptoms were assessed using the Ocular Surface Disease Index (OSDI) questionnaire, which inquired about the presence, intensity, and frequency of symptoms of DES. Additionally, the tear film break-up time (TBUT) and Schirmer’s test were conducted. Serum androgen levels were measured using the ELISA test. Results The serum androgen was significantly lower in group A (12.6±8.19 ng/dl) than in group B (24±4.44 ng/dl), (P<0.001). There was a strong significant negative correlation between androgen level and age (r=−0.60, P<0.001). In addition, there was a significant positive correlation between the TBUT and Schirmer’s test values and the amount of testosterone (T) (r=0.62, P<0.001 and r=1.0, P<0.001, respectively). The Schirmer’s test was significantly lower in postmenopausal female patients compared to male patients (mean=10.21±1.05 mm versus 12.46±1.13 mm, respectively, P<0.001). Conclusion The serum androgen level was significantly lower in postmenopausal females and elderly males with DES compared to males and females under the age of 40 years, with a significant negative correlation between androgen level and age. Moreover, the TBUT and Schirmer’s test showed a significant positive association with T level. The Schirmer’s test results were significantly lower in postmenopausal females compared to males.