Dyslipidemia and meibomian gland dysfunction

Abstract

Background: Meibomitis or Meibomian Gland Dysfunction (MGD) is a common etiological factor for dry eye and the commonest cause for ocular irritation. Patients with abnormal lipid profile and high blood sugar levels (uncontrolled Diabetes), do often present with severe grade of MGD. Purpose: To determine whether meibomian gland disease is associated with dyslipidemia. Methods: A correlation between serum fasting lipids and MGD severity was performed, in 60 people. Results: Dyslipidemia was significantly higher in those with MGD compared to those without. Factors such as age, total cholesterol, LDL, HDL, and triglycerides demonstrated a significant association. Conclusions: Although the presence of MGD does not have any correlation with dyslipidemia, the prevalence of high triglyceride and low-density lipoprotein levels increases with the increasing severity of MGD. This might highlight the significance of monitoring fasting serum lipids due to its association with the potential correlation with the progression of MGD.