ASSESSING THE IMPACT OF ANEMIA ON CENTRAL CORNEAL THICKNESS AND INTRAOCULAR PRESSURE

Abstract

Anemia is a systemic disorder that can influence ocular physiology through reduced oxygen delivery. This study evaluated the impact of anemia on central corneal thickness (CCT) and intraocular pressure (IOP) and examined the relationship between anemia severity and ocular parameters.

Methods: In this cross-sectional study, 90 patients with anemia and 90 age-matched healthy controls underwent comprehensive ocular evaluation, including specular microscopy for CCT and non-contact tonometry for IOP. Hematological profiles—including hemoglobin, ferritin, red blood cell indices, and red cell distribution width (RDW)—were assessed. Correlation analyses examined associations between anemia severity and ocular changes.

Results: Anemic patients exhibited significantly thinner CCT (RE: 519.88 ± 4.27 μm vs. 541.63 ± 6.90 μm; LE: 519.77 ± 4.35 μm vs. 541.98 ± 6.81 μm; p < 0.01) and lower IOP (RE: 13.73 ± 1.03 mmHg vs. 16.41 ± 1.68 mmHg; LE: 14.10 ± 1.19 mmHg vs. 16.78 ± 2.09 mmHg; p < 0.01) compared to controls. Both CCT and IOP positively correlated with hemoglobin levels, with greater reductions in moderate-to-severe anemia. Elevated RDW and platelet indices reflected systemic hematological disturbances.

Conclusion: Anemia is associated with significant anterior segment changes, including reduced CCT and lower IOP, with severity of anemia directly influencing these parameters. These findings highlight the importance of considering hematological status in ophthalmic evaluations to ensure accurate IOP assessment and early detection of potential ocular complications.