Which statement best describes how NIBUT values change with EDED?

Which statement best describes how NIBUT values change with EDED?

• A. NIBUT is shorter in eyes with EDED than in healthy eyes.
• B. NIBUT is longer in eyes with EDED than in healthy eyes.
• C. NIBUT is unaffected by disease.
• D. NIBUT cannot be measured in diseased eyes.

Answer: (A)

Tear film stability is reduced in evaporative dry eye, so the noninvasive tear break-up time becomes shorter. In healthy eyes the tear film stays intact longer, giving a longer NIBUT. In evaporative dry eye disease, lipid layer dysfunction from Meibomian gland issues leads to faster evaporation and quicker tear film breakup, resulting in a shorter NIBUT. Therefore, the statement that NIBUT is shorter in eyes with evaporative dry eye disease than in healthy eyes best describes the reality. NIBUT can still be measured in diseased eyes; it simply reflects the unstable tear film rather than being unaffected by disease.

Tear film stability is reduced in evaporative dry eye, so the noninvasive tear break-up time becomes shorter. In healthy eyes the tear film stays intact longer, giving a longer NIBUT. In evaporative dry eye disease, lipid layer dysfunction from Meibomian gland issues leads to faster evaporation and quicker tear film breakup, resulting in a shorter NIBUT. Therefore, the statement that NIBUT is shorter in eyes with evaporative dry eye disease than in healthy eyes best describes the reality. NIBUT can still be measured in diseased eyes; it simply reflects the unstable tear film rather than being unaffected by disease.