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Dry Eye Dx and Tx: Tech’s Role in Modern Dry Eye Diagnostics

Technological advancements are significantly enhancing the objectivity, repeatability, and efficiency of dry eye disease evaluations.

TIFFANY ANDRZEJEWSKI, OD
Contact Lens Spectrum September 1, 2025 Vol 40, Issue September 2025

Clinical Scorecard: Dry Eye Dx and Tx: Tech’s Role in Modern Dry Eye Diagnostics

At a Glance

CategoryDetail
ConditionDry Eye Disease (DED)
Key MechanismsVariable presentation and complex pathophysiology; tear film instability; ocular surface inflammation.
Target PopulationIndividuals experiencing symptoms of dry eye disease.
Care SettingOphthalmology and optometry clinics.

Key Highlights

  • Technological advancements improve objectivity and efficiency in DED evaluations.
  • Noninvasive tear breakup time (NIBUT) is recommended over traditional TBUT.
  • Tear osmolarity and inflammatory biomarkers are key indicators of DED.
  • AI and wearable technology are emerging tools for real-time monitoring and diagnosis.
  • Combining objective measurements with clinical expertise enhances patient outcomes.

Guideline-Based Recommendations

Diagnosis

  • Use NIBUT with a cutoff of < 10 seconds for DED diagnosis.
  • Measure tear osmolarity; values > 308 mOsm/L indicate instability.

Management

  • Utilize point-of-care tests for MMP-9 to assess inflammation.

Monitoring & Follow-up

  • Employ interferometry to analyze lipid layer thickness and meibography for gland assessment.

Risks

  • False negatives may occur with MMP-9 tests in mild to moderate DED.

Patient & Prescribing Data

Patients with symptoms of dry eye disease.

Targeted treatments based on specific DED mechanisms improve quality of life.

Clinical Best Practices

  • Incorporate advanced diagnostic technologies for accurate assessments.
  • Combine objective data with patient symptomology for tailored treatment plans.

References