[Dry eyes syndrome: reality and perspectives of treatment]

Scientific progress over the last decade has provided a better understanding of the ocular surface and of dry eye syndromes. The frequency of these conditions is high since 10% of all adults and 18% of all elderly persons are concerned. More adapted treatment has become available through drug research and development (artificial tears without preservatives, carbomeric fluid gels) providing substantial patient improvement both in terms of symptoms and comfort of use. The next decade will undoubtedly bring forward new agents active on one or more of the functional units, the lacrimal film, the ocular surface, eyelids, and the principal lacrimal gland.