Association of Tear Film Break-up Time (TBUT) Amongst Contact Lens Users of Superior University

Background: contact lens related dry eye is very common eye problem that can be caused by type of contact lens, especially on already compromised ocular surface. Objective: To determine the tear film breakup time (TBUT) among contact lens users. Methodology: This was an observational study done in Lahore at Chaudhary Muhammad Akram Teaching and Research Hospital. Tear film breakup time was tested by using fluorescein sodium dye and alcaine drop and examined under the cobalt filter of slit lamp. A self-design proforma was filled after examining the patient on slit lamp. Results: A sample of 342 contact lens user which 236 (69%) were female contact lens user and 106 (31%) were male contact 55% were minus soft spherical lens user, 21.9% were plano cosmetic lens user, 2.0% were plus soft spherical contact lens user, and 5.8% RGP contact lens user. The daily wear time range from 6 hours to more than 12 hours and 62.6% subjects wear 9 to 12 hours/day. Overall tear breakup time reduced, tear film breakup time ranges from 10 second in contact lens user. The results set on that 93.6% had abnormal tear film breakup time and 6.4% had normal tear film breakup time. Conclusion: It is concluded that tear film stability depend on duration of contact lens use, as the wear time increased TBUT was decreased.