The Effect of Hemodialysis on Axial Length, Ocular Surface, and Intraocular Pressure in Patients with End-Stage Renal Failure

To evaluate the changes in intraocular pressure (IOP), central corneal thickness (CCT), axial length, and ocular surface in patients with end-stage renal failure after single-session hemodialysis treatment and to examine the correlation of these findings with systemic hemodynamic parameters. A total of 112 eyes of 112 patients enrolled in a hemodialysis treatment program for three times a week (approximately four hours per session) for at least three months in our hospital between December 2019 and March 2020 were included in the study. Approximately 30 minutes before and after hemodialysis, the best-corrected visual acuity measurement, slit-lamp examination, IOP measurement, and dilated fundus examination with the Goldmann applanation tonometer were performed in all patients. The axial length measurement was undertaken by ultrasonic biometry, and the CCT measurement by ultrasonic pachymetry. The ocular surface evaluation was performed based on the tear breakup time (BUT), basal secretion time (BST) and keratoepitheliopathy score. Blood pressure, serum osmolarity, and body weight were measured before and after hemodialysis. The mean IOP decreased from 12.2 ± 3.5 to 10.8 ± 2.2 mmHg, and the mean decrease was 1.4 ± 2 mmHg, indicating statistical significance (p