Platelet-Rich Plasma and Combination Therapies for Dry Eye Disease: Current Advances and Future Directions

Dry eye disease (DED), as one of the most prevalent ocular surface diseases, is a multifactorial disorder disrupting tear film homeostasis and ocular surface integrity, profoundly impacts patients' quality of life. Conventional therapies such as artificial tears and anti-inflammatory agents provide transient relief but fail to address underlying pathological mechanisms and may induce complications with prolonged use.

Platelet-rich plasma (PRP), an autologous biologic agent enriched with growth factors (e.g., platelet-derived growth factor, transforming growth factor-β, epidermal growth factor), has emerged as a promising therapeutic strategy. PRP promotes corneal epithelial regeneration, reduces inflammation, and restores glandular function, offering a pathophysiologically targeted approach. Recent studies highlight synergistic benefits of combining PRP with agents like hyaluronic acid, stem cells, or nanomaterials, which enhance tear film stability and tissue repair. Despite encouraging preclinical and clinical outcomes, optimal protocols and long-term safety of PRP-based combination therapies remain under investigation.

This review synthesizes current evidence on PRP's mechanisms, clinical efficacy, and innovative combinatorial approaches for DED, emphasizing the need for standardized trials to validate these strategies. Future integration of PRP with biologics, advanced materials, or laser therapies may revolutionize precision medicine in DED management.