To investigate levels of severity in dry eye syndrome according to Delphi panel classification.

Three hundred and twenty-two eyes of 166 patients with dry eye syndrome that did not have coexisting lid margin disease or altered tear distribution and clearance were categorized into 1 of 4 levels of severity, according to the symptoms and signs in the Delphi panel classification. A symptom score was proposed depending on the frequency and impact on the quality of life. Degree of corneal staining using Lissamin green was categorized using the Oxford Scheme. In addition, measurement of the tear film break-up time (BUT) and Schirmer test were performed.

According to the levels of severity in the Delphi panel classification, 120 eyes (37.26%) were categorized as level1, 166 eyes (51.55%) as level 2, 30 eyes (9.31%) as level 3, and 6 eyes (1.86%) as level 4. Negative correlations were observed between the levels of severity, BUT, and measurements of the Schirmer test ( p <0.001).

Of the 166 eyes with dry eye syndrome that did not have coexisting lid margin disease and altered tear distribution and clearance, 51.55% of eyes were classified as level 2, and 88.81% of eyes were classified as level 1 and level 2.