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Effect of Artificial Tear Formulations on the Metabolic Activity of Human Corneal Epithelial Cells after Exposure to Desiccation

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Essential fatty acids for dry eye: A review.

Marco Roncone¹, Hannah Bartlett, Frank Eperjesi

¹Aston University, Birmingham, UK.

Contact Lens & Anterior Eye : the Journal of the British Contact Lens Association

|December 25, 2009

Summary

Omega-3 essential fatty acids (EFA) may effectively treat dry eye disease by reducing inflammation and improving tear film quality. Supplementation is safe and beneficial for dry eye syndrome (DES) treatment and prevention.

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Area of Science:

Ophthalmology
Nutrition Science
Immunology

Background:

Dry eye disease (DES) is a prevalent condition in optometry, challenging to manage due to the disconnect between clinical signs and patient symptoms.
Essential fatty acids (EFA), particularly omega-3, show potential in addressing the root causes of DES.

Purpose of the Study:

To review the literature on the efficacy of omega-3 essential fatty acids (EFA) in treating dry eye syndrome (DES).

Main Methods:

A comprehensive literature review was conducted using PubMed, ScienceDirect, and Ovid databases.
Searches focused on keywords including 'dry eye', 'essential fatty acids', and 'nutrition' to identify relevant studies on omega-3 EFA treatment for DES.

Main Results:

Optimal EFA efficacy requires a balanced ratio of omega-3 and omega-6; Western diets are often deficient in omega-3, leading to omega-6 overconsumption.
Omega-3 supplementation exhibits anti-inflammatory properties, reducing omega-6 prostaglandin precursors and protecting lacrimal gland secretory cells from apoptosis.
Supplementation improves meibomitis, resulting in a more stable lipid layer that enhances tear film and corneal protection.

Conclusions:

Omega-3 EFA supplementation is recognized for its effectiveness in managing conditions like coronary heart disease and arthritis.
Safety is assured due to synergistic action with omega-6, and evidence supports omega-3 EFA's role in both treating and preventing DES.