Tear function in patients with chronic renal failure undergoing hemodialysis.

Objective: To evaluate dry eye symptoms and clinical tear film alterations in patients with chronic renal failure (CRF).

Methods: Thirty-five non-diabetic CRF patients undergoing hemodialysis, and 31 healthy individuals were enrolled. An ocular surface disease index questionnaire (OSDI) was administered, and after a complete ocular examination, Schirmer and tear break-up time (TBUT) tests were performed.

Results: OSDI scores were significantly higher (p<0.01) and TBUT tests were significantly lower (p=0.01) in CRF patients than in the control group. Schirmer test results were also lower in the CRF patients group, but lacked statistical significance (p=0.20).

Conclusions: Patients with CRF should be advised to obtain an ophthalmic examination, especially for dry eye.