Temporal Progression of Entry Factors into the Vicious Circle of Dry Eye in Untreated Sufferers

Abstract

Background: Dry eye disease (DED) is characterized by the loss of ocular surface homeostasis with specific signs and symptoms. Studying the progression of a multifactorial disease is exceedingly challenging for researchers because several factors can influence it. The present study aims to study changes in tear meniscus height (TMH), lipid layer pattern (LLP), and bulbar hyperemia over time in untreated DED participants. Methods: This retrospective longitudinal study included 73 participants (146 eyes) diagnosed with DED since at least 2013. Participants underwent new examinations between 2021 and 2023, grouped by 8-, 6-, or 4-year follow-up periods. TMH, LLP, and bulbar hyperemia were assessed in both examinations. No participant received pharmacological treatment for DED. Results: Differences in TMH, bulbar hyperemia, and LLP between sessions were obtained in the 8-year group (p ≤ 0.027). Differences in bulbar hyperemia and LLP between sessions were obtained in the 6-year group (p ≤ 0.022). The only differences in LLP between sessions were obtained in the 4-year group (p < 0.005). Conclusion: Changes in TMH were obtained after periods of eight years from the first eye examination. Also, changes in bulbar hyperemia were obtained at periods of 8 and 6 years; however, changes in LLP could be found from 4-year follow-ups.