Abstract:

The ocular surface damage of thyroid-associated ophthalmopathy (TAO) involves ocular surface tissues including cornea, conjunctival epithelium, and tear film, which causes severe ocular discomfort and decreased vision. Dry eye syndrome is the most common ocular surface damage manifestation in patients with TAO. TAO patients cause ocular surface inflammation due to corneal exposure, tear film instability, and high osmotic pressure of tears, leading to dry eye syndrome.