AIM: To analyze the difference of ocular manifestations in Sjögren's syndrome(SS)of different age groups and different disease courses. And investigate whether SS is correlated with tear dysfunction and ocular surface disorder.

METHODS: Retrospective analysis of 80 patients(160 eyes)with SS. The cases were divided into three groups according to the course. Group A: course of disease ≤1a. Group B: course of disease from 1 to 2a; Group C: course of disease >2a. At the same time, cases were divided into four groups according to the age, group A: 15-30 years old; Group B: 31-45 years old; Group C: 46-60 years old; Group D: 61-75 years old. The data including the staining of cornea fluorescein(CF), the tear break-up time(BUT), Schirmer Ⅰ test(SⅠt)and the occurrence of dry eye were collected and compared.

RESULTS: Prevalence of dry eye with SS was 36%, significantly higher than the general population. The prevalence of dry eye increased with increasing age(χ²=10.66, P=0.014)and extension of course(χ²=20.127, P=0.000), the secretion of tear decreased with increasing age(H=2.575, P=0.462)and extension of course(H=7.356, P=0.025)and the tear film break-up time become shorter with increasing age(H=11.932, P=0.008)and extension of course(H=12.969, P=0.002), the degree of staining with fluorescin on the cornea increased with increasing age(H=14.068, P=0.003)and extension of course(H=16.060, P=0.000).

CONCLUSION: Patients with SS are susceptible persons of the dry eye. The ocular surface disease in SS is characterized by a disorder of tear quantity and quality, decreased tear film stability, decreased secretion of the tear, staining with fluorescin on the cornea. The correlation of these changes and age and course is positive. BUT, SⅠt and CF should become routine tests of ophthalmology in SS.