Ocular Manifestations in Patients with Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease Attending a Tertiary Care Centre

Abstract

Background: Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) is a progressive inflammatory airway disorder associated with significant systemic manifestations. Chronic hypoxia, smoking, oxidative stress, and vascular abnormalities in COPD can affect ocular structures and lead to various ophthalmic complications. Early identification of ocular manifestations in COPD patients is important to prevent visual morbidity and improve quality of life.
Aim: To evaluate the ocular manifestations in patients with Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease attending a tertiary care centre.
Materials and Methods: A retrospective observational study was conducted at Government Medical College and Hospital, Purnea, Bihar, India, from April 2025 to March 2026 among 110 diagnosed COPD patients. Detailed ophthalmological examination records including visual acuity, slit-lamp examination, intraocular pressure measurement, and fundoscopy were reviewed. Data regarding demographic characteristics, smoking history, severity of COPD, and ocular manifestations were analyzed. Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS version 26.0. A p-value <0.05 was considered statistically significant.
Results: The majority of patients belonged to the age group of 51–60 years (38.2%). Male predominance was observed (72.7%). Cataract (40.9%) was the most common ocular manifestation followed by dry eye disease (30.0%), hypertensive retinopathy (18.2%), glaucoma (12.7%), and diabetic retinopathy (10.9%). Dry eye disease was significantly associated with smoking history and severe COPD (p<0.05). Increased intraocular pressure was observed in patients receiving prolonged corticosteroid therapy (p=0.021).
Conclusion: Ocular manifestations are common among COPD patients, with cataract and dry eye disease being the predominant findings. Regular ophthalmic screening in COPD patients is essential for early diagnosis and management of vision-threatening complications.