“Dry eye” syndrome — treatment based on the use of autologous “artificial tears”
Abstract
Proper structure of the tear film guarantees an adequate degree of moisture to the eye surface, nourishment for the epithelial layer of the cornea as well as protection against infections. The “dry eye” syndrome results from abnormalities in the structure of any of the three layers of the tear film induced by either endogenous or environmental factors such as genetics, diseases, mood, work and working conditions. For those who suffer from the “dry eye” syndrome there is a beneficial option of “artificial tears” acquired from autologous serum obtained from the patient’s whole blood. Viscosity of serum as well as its composition provide a much more effective, and most importantly, prolonged moisturizing of the epithelium as compared to pharmaceutical eye drops. “Artificial tears” are safe because they are produced from the patient’s own serum and contain no preservatives.They facilitate regeneration of the epithelium, which is not the case with regular eye drops. If used regularly “artificial tears” improve comfort and vision acuity. They provide temporary relief from eye redness, pain and itching.
Keywords: artificial tearsdry eye syndromechronic graft versus host diseaseserumtear film