Thursday, June 11, 2009

Abstract: Dry eye in 2008

Curr Opin Ophthalmol. 2009 Apr 24. [Epub ahead of print]
Dry eye in 2008.

Abelson MB, Ousler GW 3rd, Maffei C.
aOra, Andover, USA bSchepens Eye Research Institute, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA.

PURPOSE OF REVIEW: Although researchers continue to investigate the multifarious etiologic, anatomical, physiological, and pathological factors of dry eye, successful treatment remains a challenge. RECENT FINDINGS: Dry eye prevalence is substantial across populations and the term 'dry eye' is used to describe numerous causes and varied pathophysiologies. Advanced study of the physiological aspects of the ocular anatomy (e.g. cornea and conjunctiva, tear film, eyelids) allows improved understanding of the mechanisms involved in dry eye and the impact of different causes on these entities. Sophisticated diagnostics are being developed to efficiently identify dry eye. Management options include a variety of novel agents in the pipeline. SUMMARY: The development of improved etiological understanding and diagnostics for dry eye, as well as emerging therapeutics, will likely allow targeted therapy in the future.

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