Corneal Imaging Techniques for Dry Eye Disease

Abstract

Dry eye disease (DED) is a common ocular disorder affecting millions worldwide. It is characterized by reduced tear production and/or increased tear evaporation, leading to ocular discomfort and impaired vision. Corneal imaging techniques are valuable tools for diagnosing and monitoring DED, as they can provide objective and quantitative information on the structure and function of the ocular surface and the tear film. This chapter will review the principles and applications of various corneal imaging techniques for DED, such as Slit-Lamp Biomicroscopy, Fluorescein CorneoGraphy, In Vivo Confocal Microscopy, Optical Coherence Tomography, Lipid Layer Interferometry, Topography, and Fluorophotometry. The advantages and limitations of each technique are discussed, as well as their potential role in future research and clinical practice, such as monitoring treatment efficacy and guiding personalized treatment approaches.