OCT imaging of conjunctiva, adnexal structures & oral mucous membrane
Research type
Research Study
Full title
Optical Coherence Tomography of ocular structures in epiphora and dry eye syndrome
IRAS ID
188310
Contact name
Mohammad Wasil
Contact email
Sponsor organisation
Bedford Hospital NHS Trust
Clinicaltrials.gov Identifier
Duration of Study in the UK
2 years, 0 months, 1 days
Research summary
Optical coherence tomography (OCT) imaging is a relatively newly described method of using infra-red light to capture detailed pictures of small structures in the body. In this study we aim to advance the role of OCT imaging as relevant to the tear production and drainage systems around the eyes as well as the ocular surface. \n\nAsymptomatic subjects\nBoth the cornea and conjunctiva can be affected by dry eye syndrome and abnormalities in the conjunctiva can also cause watery eyes. We will capture OCT images of the cornea and conjunctiva in asymptomatic people to establish its normal appearance in preparation for further work investigating the appearance in various eye diseases. \n\nDry eye syndrome\nAn important cause of insufficient tear production and dry eye syndrome is Sjőgrens disease in which the body’s own immune system attacks the tear producing glands (lacrimal glands) as well as other fluid-producing glands throughout the body such as the salivary glands in the mouth. \nAt present patients with dry eye syndrome due to suspected Sjőgrens may undergo a biopsy of their oral mucous membrane to establish the diagnosis. Our question is whether OCT imaging may be a viable alternative to biopsy in some cases. \n\nWatery eyes\nPatients who have watery eyes or constant tearing can experience a significant decrease in quality of life. A common cause of watery eyes is a narrowing in the tear drainage system in the lower eyelid (punctum) or excess folds of conjunctiva covering the opening. In the present study we will image the lower punctum and/or conjunctiva of patients with watery eyes before and after they undergo surgery to correct these conditions. This study will be a first step to answering questions about whether OCT could improve the accuracy of diagnosis and prognosis or inform surgical technique in this condition.
REC name
East of England - Cambridge Central Research Ethics Committee
REC reference
16/EE/0112
Date of REC Opinion
14 Jun 2016
REC opinion
Further Information Favourable Opinion