Autologous blood in the management of ocular surface disorders

Autologous blood therapy has emerged as a promising modality in managing ocular surface disorders. This review provides a comprehensive overview of the current literature regarding the use of autologous blood in ocular surface disorders, encompassing its physiological basis, clinical applications, techniques, challenges, and future perspectives. The ocular surface, comprising the cornea, conjunctiva, and tear film, plays a critical role in maintaining visual function, and its disruption can lead to various pathological conditions. With its rich composition of growth factors, cytokines, and other bioactive molecules, autologous blood offers therapeutic potential in promoting corneal wound healing, reducing inflammation, and improving tear film stability. Clinical studies have demonstrated the efficacy and safety of autologous blood therapy in diverse ocular surface disorders, including persistent epithelial defects, neurotrophic keratopathy, and dry eye disease. However, challenges such as variability in treatment response, adverse effects, and optimal patient selection remain areas of concern. Further research is needed to elucidate the underlying mechanisms of action, refine treatment protocols, and explore synergistic approaches with other therapeutic modalities. Despite these challenges, autologous blood therapy holds promise as a valuable adjunctive treatment option for ocular surface disorders, offering new avenues for improving patient outcomes and quality of life. This review examines the mechanisms underlying ocular surface disorders while discussing existing autologous blood-based therapies for managing these disorders. Current clinical trials are also summarized, and a comparison between autologous blood therapy and conventional eyedrops is attempted. Finally, safe techniques and protocols for autologous blood medicine are elucidated, and adverse effects and future perspectives of this novel therapy are reviewed.