Alternative therapies for dry eye disease.

Area of Science:

• Ophthalmology
• Dry Eye Disease Research
• Regenerative Medicine

Background:

• Dry eye disease (DED) is a prevalent, multifactorial condition impacting 5-50% of global populations.
• Key contributors include lacrimal gland hypofunction, meibomian gland dysfunction (MGD), ocular surface inflammation, and corneal nerve dysfunction.
• Existing treatments offer incomplete relief for many DED patients.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review alternative and adjunct therapeutic strategies for DED.
• To explore novel approaches targeting the underlying causes of DED.
• To identify emerging treatments for various DED sub-types.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of recent studies on DED treatments.
• Focus on therapies addressing lacrimal gland hypofunction, MGD, ocular surface inflammation, and corneal nerve dysfunction.
• Analysis of emerging treatments including neuromodulation, stem cells, intense pulsed light, Manuka honey, trehalose, and nerve growth factor.

Main Results:

• Neuromodulation, stem cells, and royal jelly show promise for lacrimal gland hypofunction.
• Eyelid warming, intense pulsed light, and Manuka honey may benefit MGD.
• Trehalose and other anti-inflammatory agents are being investigated for ocular surface inflammation.
• Treatments for corneal nerve dysfunction include nerve growth factor and blood-derived products.
• Adjuvant therapies for neuropathic pain include nerve blocks and acupuncture, though evidence is less robust.

Conclusions:

• Several promising alternative and adjunct therapies for DED are under investigation.
• These novel approaches target specific underlying mechanisms of the disease.
• Further rigorous studies are needed to confirm the efficacy and applicability of these emerging treatments.