Via practica 4/2011

Dry eye treatment (Lacrimal gland dysfunction, tear film dysfunction and the use of artificial tears in the practice)

Dry eye syndrome (DES) has a complex multifactorial aetiology that involves the wearing of contact lenses, pathological conditions of the eye, systemic diseases, hormonal factors and effects of some drugs. Genetic predispositions, age, sex, environment and other factors also play a role. DES is the most common outpatient condition seen in ophthalmology. It reduces the quality of life and may even affect the patient's visual functions. The diagnosis of DES is based on the history, clinical examination and tests measuring the amount of tears produced or the stability of the tear film. The treatment is prescribed by an ophthalmologist according to the clinical degree of severity. It is individual, mostly symptomatic, and involves the application of artificial tears of various kinds and composition. In the case of a complicated course, lacrimal occlusion with collagen plugs, surgical eyelid correction, topical corticoids or, exceptionally, cyclosporin A (Restasis) can be used.

Keywords: dry eye syndrome, artificial tears, lacrimal gland, tear film.