Local Ocular Surface Alterations in Children with Hashimoto-s Thyroiditis

Abstract

Purpose: To evaluate the ocular surface characteristics based on Schirmer-s test, tear break-up time (TBUT), and conjunctival impression cytology (CIC) in children with Hashimoto-s thyroiditis (HT). Methods: This study included 51 children with HT and 53 control subjects. The ocular surface characteristics of participants were assessed via Schirmer-s test, TBUT, and CIC. Conjunctival samples were examined cytologically according to the Nelson grading system. Results: Schirmer-s and TBUT results were significantly lower in HT group (p < .05). All samples in both the study and control groups were evaluated as grade 0 according to the Nelson classification (p = .841), however, goblet cell density (GCD) was significantly lower in HT group (p = .001). Schirmer test results were significantly associated with the duration of HT (p = .025, r = -0.311). Conclusion: Hashimoto-s thyroiditis without any ocular complaints may cause ocular surface changes with TBUT and Schirmer-s. Although CIC analysis showed similar grading results, GCD was significantly decreased in HT group.