Meibomian Gland Dysfunction: Recent Progress Worldwide and in Japan

Area of Science:

• Ophthalmology
• Dry Eye Disease Research

Background:

• Meibomian gland dysfunction (MGD) is a prevalent ocular condition.
• Global research efforts are crucial for understanding and managing MGD.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the significant contributions of Japanese research to the global understanding of MGD.
• To highlight advancements in MGD pathophysiology, diagnosis, and therapy driven by Japanese studies.

Main Methods:

• Review of recent Japanese studies on MGD pathophysiology, diagnosis, and treatment.
• Analysis of diagnostic techniques including slit-lamp examination, in vivo confocal microscopy, and meibography.
• Evaluation of therapeutic interventions and proposed diagnostic criteria.

Main Results:

• Japanese research provides evidence for the role of lipid composition and reactive oxygen species in MGD.
• New diagnostic criteria for obstructive MGD have been proposed, incorporating symptoms, anatomy, and obstruction.
• Novel Japanese therapeutic devices, drugs (diquafosol, vitamin D3), and lid hygiene protocols show efficacy.

Conclusions:

• Standardization of MGD diagnosis and treatment is essential for optimal patient outcomes.
• Specific diagnostic criteria with cutoff values are needed to standardize MGD diagnosis.
• Japanese research has substantially contributed to advancing MGD diagnosis and therapy globally.