Prognosis and Management of Dry Eye Disease

Dear Colleagues,

Dry eye is a complex condition of the ocular surface characterized by a disturbance in the homeostasis of the tear film, leading to ocular signs and symptoms. This condition may have a significant impact on the quality of life of those who suffer from it, as well as on the global economy due to the costs of treatment and loss of productivity.

Some studies have suggested that dry eye could impact up to 50% of the global population, whereas others estimate its association with only 5–10% of pollution. These discrepancies often stem from differences in diagnostic criteria or even in the definition of the disorder itself. While previous reports have explored certain tests as single-gold standard markers for dry eye detection, disparities in results have been revealed. This underscores the need for validation studies based on specific designs. Investigating new assessment methodologies may offer a more efficient and optimized approach, providing valuable insights that could enhance diagnostic precision and expedite the identification of these ocular disorders.

Moreover, due to the lack of a clear definition or diagnosis, there is a gap in well-designed studies that monitor changes in dry eye signs, symptoms, status, and severity over time, as well as in the natural history of treated or untreated patients. This also leads to problems and discrepancies in patient management that will increase the human and economic cost of the disease.

In response to the demands of the scientific research community, the implementation of well-designed studies is imperative. This Special Issue aims to compile knowledge regarding the definition, epidemiology, diagnosis, natural course, and management of dry eye disorders.

Dr. Hugo Pena-Verdeal
Dr. Alena Furdova
Dr. Jacobo Garcia-Queiruga
Guest Editors

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• dry eye disease
• dry eye epidemiology
• dry eye management
• dry eye natural course
• meibomian gland dysfunction
• evaporative dry eye
• aqueous deficiency dry eye
• artificial tear substitutes
• tear film lipid layer
• meibomian glands