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Alternative names Return to top
Keratitis sicca; Xerophthalmia; Dry eye syndromeDefinition Return to top
Keratoconjunctivitis sicca is a persistent dryness of the cornea and conjunctiva due to decreased function of the tear glands or increased evaporation of tears. The cornea may be thickened and visual acuity may be decreased.
See also conjunctivitis, decreased tearing, vitamin A deficiency, and Sjogren syndrome.
Causes, incidence, and risk factors Return to top
Dry eye syndrome usually occurs in people who are otherwise healthy. It is more common with older age, because tear production decreases with age. In rare cases, it can be associated with rheumatoid arthritis, lupus erythematosis, and other similar diseases. It may also be caused by thermal or chemical burns.
Symptoms Return to top
Symptoms of dry eye range form mild irritation and foreign body sensation to severe discomfort with sensitivity to light.
Signs and tests Return to top
The tear film can be inspected at the slit lamp (biomicroscope) by the ophthalmologist. A dye such as fluorescein may be placed in the eye to make the tear film more visible. Your health care provider may do a Schirmer's test, measuring the rate of tear production using a calibrated paper wick placed on the edge of the eyelid.
Treatment Return to top
Wetting drops called artificial tears may be used for treatment. Lubricating ointments may help more severe cases. Tiny plugs may be placed in the tear drainage ducts to help the tears remain on the surface of the eye.
Expectations (prognosis) Return to top
Most patients with dry eye have only discomfort, and no vision loss. With severe cases, the cornea (clear window on the front of the eye) may become damaged or infected.
Complications Return to top
Ulcers or infections of the cornea are serious complications.
Calling your health care provider Return to top
See your health care provider immediately if you have dry eyes and have a sudden increase in discomfort or redness, or a sudden decrease in vision.
Prevention Return to top
There is no way to prevent keratoconjunctivitis sicca. Complications can be prevented by use of wetting and lubricating drops and ointments.
Update Date: 12/22/2002 Updated by: Raymond S. Douglas M.D., Ph.D. Department of Ophthalmology, UCLA Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.
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Page last updated: 28 October 2004 |