The Biophysical Role in Tear Regulation

Effect of an Oil-in-Water Emulsion on the Tear Physiology of Patients With Mild to Moderate Dry Eye

“…34 Models of dry eye indicate that excessive evaporation can severely disrupt the tear dynamics, resulting in dry eye, 35,36 and a uniform layer of stable tear film lipid is crucial in the prevention of excessive evaporation from the ocular surface. 2 The results of this study and other studies also emphasize a direct relationship between lipid distribution and stability on the ocular surface and the evaporation of the tears. 10,11,24,[37][38][39] The enhanced reduction of evaporation observed in this study was not recorded immediately after instillation of the emulsion drop, but at 1 to 6 hours after the last use of the drop, from compliance with the prescribed 3 doses per day study regimen.…”

“…M anagement of dry eye has conventionally been achieved by use of lubricant eye drops to provide temporary symptomatic relief, [1][2][3] in conjunction with surgical procedures such as punctal plugs and more recently pharmacological therapy for underlying inflammation with cyclosporin A. 4,5 Other pharmacological agents are currently in development, [6][7][8][9] but initial therapy for most new patients with dry eye consists of artificial tears.…”

Prevalence and Associations of External Punctal Stenosis in a General Population in Spain

“…Several studies have also reported a lack of ocular surface-related symptoms and significant epiphora in patients with acquired obstruction of the lacrimal drainage system or after punctal occlusion. 19,20 Yen et al, 21 who observed that punctal occlusion in normal subjects decreases tear production and ocular surface sensation, suggested that homeostatic mechanisms probably prevent symptoms arising in these individuals. In addition, no differences were detected between subjects with and without EPS with respect to TBUT or vital stainings.…”

Rheumatoid arthritis-associated corneal ulceration complicated by bacterial infection

“…For dry eye, the techniques include punctal plugs (Case 2) and sutures (Case 1) resulting in watery eyes; however, tear turnover is not improved, but rather suppressed after punctal occlusion. 20,21 In these two patients, the clearance of infectious agents on the ocular surface was presumed to be profoundly disturbed, which resulted in destructive infection.…”