AIM: To observe the application of traditional examinations and optical coherence tomography analysis in diagnosis of dry eye who are suffered from lupus nephritis. The correlation between traditional examinations and optical coherence tomography were analyzed.

METHODS: We included 27 cases(54 eyes)with lupus nephritis and the same number of normal subjects as control group. Subjective symptom scores, Schirmer Ⅰ test, break-up time(BUT), fluorescein staining, optical coherence tomography(OCT)measurement of tear meniscus height and tear meniscus area were carried out for both groups.

RESULTS: Compared with the normal control group(35%), the lupus nephritis group(59%)shows a higher prevalence of subjective symptom, less lacrimal secretion(P<0.01), shorter BUT(P<0.01), a higher positive rate of FL staining(LN 63%, control group 30%), lower tear meniscus heigt(P=0.002)and smaller tear meniscus area(P=0.028). The incidence of dry eye is significantly higher in lupus nephritis group. The value of tear meniscus height had positive correlation with SⅠt(P=0.012)or BUT(P=0.002)results. The value of tear meniscus area had positive correlation with SⅠt(P=0.023)or BUT(P=0.004)results.

CONCLUSION: The prevalence of dry eye is higher in lupus nephritis than normal people. We should examining and giving treatment in time in order to relive eye discomfort. As a simplicity of operator, high-efficiency, accurate examination method, OCT will be of value to diagnosis of dry eye.