OCULAR FINDINGS IN PATIENTS WITH CHRONIC OBSTRUCTIVE PULMONARY DISEASE

Abstract

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is a common respiratory condition known for its systemic impact and wide range of comorbidities. While its pulmonary effects are well documented, emerging evidence points to possible ocular involvement that has received less clinical and research attention. Visual impairments due to cataract, age-related macular degeneration (ARMD), and glaucoma are among the leading causes of blindness worldwide, yet their prevalence in individuals with COPD remains underexplored and poorly characterized in existing literature.

In a cross-sectional study, 150 COPD patients were recruited from respiratory clinics and primary care settings. Each participant underwent a thorough ophthalmic evaluation, including visual acuity testing, slit-lamp examination, intraocular pressure measurement, dilated fundus examination, and optical coherence tomography. Simultaneously, detailed clinical data regarding COPD—such as disease severity, exacerbation frequency, smoking history, duration of illness, and medication use—were collected to identify possible associations between respiratory and ocular health.

The findings revealed cataract as the most prevalent ocular condition among participants, followed by ARMD and glaucoma. Notably, a strong correlation was observed between ocular pathology and COPD-related factors, particularly smoking and disease severity. These associations suggest shared pathophysiological mechanisms, such as oxidative stress and chronic inflammation, linking lung dysfunction with ocular degeneration.

These results underscore the importance of integrating regular ophthalmic screening into the routine care of COPD patients. Early detection and timely management of ocular comorbidities can significantly improve overall quality of life in this vulnerable population. The study highlights the need for further research to better understand the underlying biological connections and to develop comprehensive, multidisciplinary strategies for care.