Elevated red cell distribution width levels in patients with pseudoexfoliation syndrome and pseudoexfoliation glaucoma

INTRODUCTION: To assess the levels of red cell distribution width (RDW) in patients with pseudoexfoliation syndrome (PEX) and to compare the RDW values of patients with PEX, PEX glaucoma (PXG), and healthy controls.
METHODS: In total, 45 patients with PEX, 14 patients with PXG, and 43 age- and sex-matchd healthy control subjects were enrolled in this retrospective study. Complete ophthalmologic examination and complete blood count measurements were performed of all subjects. Complete blood counts were performed within 1 h of blood collection.
RESULTS: RDW levels were significantly higher in patients with PEX and PXG than in those with controls (p = 0.037 and p < 0.001, respectively). Also, a significant difference was found in RDW values between PXG and PEX groups (p = 0.028). RDW levels were gradually increased from control group to PXG group (p < 0.001 for one-way ANOVA). Multivariate logistic regression analysis revealed that RDW was independently associated with the presence of PEX/PXG (odds ratio 1.698, 95% confidence interval 1.077-2.677, p = 0.023).
DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSION: The present study for the first time provides evidence that RDW may be an useful marker for predicting the presence of PEX and progression to PXG.