Ocular Surface and Tear Cytokine Changes after Cataract Surgery in Patients with Type 2 Diabetes

Purpose: To evaluate changes in ocular surface indices and tear cytokines after cataract surgery in type 2 diabetic patients. Methods: Ocular surface indices and concentrations of tear cytokines (MCP-1, IL-6, IL-8, and VEGF) were evaluated at baseline and one week and one month postoperatively. Results: Patients (30 diabetic and 30 control) were enrolled. In the diabetic group, changes in ocular symptom and tear breakup time remained until one month postoperatively (P < .05, respectively); in the control group, ocular symptom increased at one week postoperatively (P = .015). MCP-1 level in the diabetic group significantly increased postoperatively (all P < .05); however, in the control group, the IL-8 level was significantly decreased postoperatively (all P < .05). MCP-1 concentration was negatively correlated with TBUT in the diabetic group. Conclusion: Diabetic patients can experience more prominent changes after surgery and these changes were accompanied by an increase of several tear cytokines.