NCT07810569
Ocular Surface Changes and Meibomian Gland Dysfunction in Rheumatologic Patients
Not Yet Recruiting · Not specified · Assiut University · registry updated 2026-09-09
Inclusion and exclusion lines below are quoted from ClinicalTrials.gov. No match score is shown, because a score needs a person's age, biomarkers, and treatment dates. Confirm the record with the study team.
This observational study aims to assess the frequency and severity of Meibomian Gland Dysfunction (MGD) and associated ocular surface changes in patients with systemic autoimmune rheumatic diseases compared with healthy volunteers. Meibomian glands are specialized glands in the eyelids that produce the lipid layer of tears, preventing tear evaporation. Systemic inflammation in rheumatologic conditions may affect these glands, leading to dry eye symptoms and ocular surface damage. A total of 150 participants (120 rheumatologic patients and 30 healthy controls) will be evaluated in a single cross-sectional examination. Rheumatologic diagnoses include Rheumatoid Arthritis, Systemic Lupus Erythematosus, Sjogren's Syndrome, Ankylosing Spondylitis, and Psoriatic Arthritis....
Inclusion
- Age 18 years or older
- Ability to provide written informed consent
- For rheumatologic patients: Confirmed clinical diagnosis of one of the following autoimmune diseases:
- Rheumatoid Arthritis (2010 ACR/EULAR classification criteria)
- Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (2019 EULAR/ACR classification criteria)
- Sjogren's Syndrome (2016 ACR/EULAR classification criteria)
Exclusion
- Chronic use of topical antiglaucoma eye drops
- Ocular surgery within the past 6 months
- Active ocular infection or active uveitis
- Contact lens wearers who have not discontinued wear for at least 2 weeks
- History of ocular chemical burns
- Pregnancy or lactation