Eye diseases associated with obstructive sleep apnea syndrome in an Asian population

Background: Sleep apnea syndrome is one of the leading causes of excessive daytime sleepiness. There is no literature exploring the prevalence of sleep-associated disorders in the eye of Asians with obstructive sleep apnea syndrome (OSA). Objective: Study the prevalence of eye abnormalities in Asian patients with OSA. Material and method: Asian patients with definite OSA diagnosis via the polysomnography were recruited into the study. Complete eye examination and special investigations were performed to define eye diseases: floppy eyelids, dry eyes, keratoconus, Fuchs’ endothelial dystrophy, recurrent corneal erosions, open-angle glaucoma, ophthalmoplegia, papilledema and optic neuropathy. Results: One-hundred Asian OSA patients were examined. We found that floppy eyelids, dry eyes, and normal tension glaucoma were more prevalent compared to the normal population. Abnormal endothelial change and papilledema were detected. Optic neuropathy and ophthalmoplegia were not found in this study, although some patients did have subnormal contrast sensitivity. Conclusion: There is a higher prevalence of floppy eyelids, dry eyes, and glaucoma in OSA patients. Complete eye examination is recommended in OSA patients to detect early eye abnormalities.