What are the ocular findings of systemic sclerosis (SSc)?

From the Guidelines

Ocular Findings of Systemic Sclerosis (SSc)

Ocular findings of systemic sclerosis (SSc) can include dry eye syndrome, eyelid tightening, and telangiectasias 1. Patients may also experience decreased tear production, conjunctivitis, and keratoconjunctivitis sicca. In severe cases, SSc can cause eyelid scarring, proptosis, and even vision loss.

Management of Ocular Symptoms

To manage ocular symptoms, artificial tears such as preservative-free lubricants can be used as needed 1. In cases of severe dry eye, punctal plugs or surgical punctal occlusion may be considered. Topical corticosteroids or immunosuppressants like cyclosporine 0.05% ophthalmic emulsion may be prescribed for short-term use to reduce inflammation 1.

Importance of Regular Eye Exams

Regular eye exams are crucial for patients with SSc to monitor for potential complications and initiate prompt treatment if necessary 1. This is especially important as SSc can have a significant impact on the eyes, and early detection and treatment of ocular symptoms can help prevent long-term damage and vision loss.

• Key points to consider in the management of ocular symptoms in SSc include:
  • Use of artificial tears and other lubricants to manage dry eye syndrome
  • Consideration of punctal plugs or surgical punctal occlusion in severe cases
  • Short-term use of topical corticosteroids or immunosuppressants to reduce inflammation
  • Regular eye exams to monitor for potential complications and initiate prompt treatment if necessary 1

From the Research

Ocular Findings of Systemic Sclerosis (SSc)

The ocular findings of systemic sclerosis (SSc) can be diverse and affect various parts of the eye. Some of the key findings include:

• Eyelid abnormalities, such as stiffness, tightness, and telangiectasia, which were found in 11 and 8 patients, respectively, in a study of 38 patients with SSc 2
• Deficient tear secretion, which was found in 14 cases in the same study 2
• Conjunctival abnormalities, including injection and vascular sludging, which were found in 19 and 27 cases, respectively 2
• Dry eye disease, which was found to be more common in patients with SSc than in healthy individuals, with a prevalence of 48.9% in one study 3 and 64.71% in another study 4
• Retinal abnormalities, which were found in 26 patients (50.98%) in one study 4
• Cataracts, which were found in 26 patients (50.98%) in the same study 4
• Glaucoma, which was found in 11 patients (21.57%) in the same study 4
• Meibomian gland dysfunction, which was found to be more common in patients with SSc than in healthy individuals, with a higher prevalence of foamy tears and telangiectasia of the eyelids 5

Anterior Segment Changes

Changes in the anterior segment of the eye related to SSc include:

• Eyelid skin remodeling 6
• Dry eye syndrome 6, 3
• Conjunctival abnormalities 2, 6

Posterior Segment Changes

Changes in the posterior segment of the eye related to SSc include:

• Retinal microcirculatory system abnormalities 6
• Optic nerve abnormalities 6
• Retinal abnormalities, such as those found in 26 patients (50.98%) in one study 4