Omega-3 (Dry Eye)

This study reviewed the efficacy and safety of intense pulsed light (IPL) for the treatment of dry eye disease (DED). The PubMed database was used to conduct the literature search, which used the keywords "intense pulsed light" and "dry eye disease". After the authors evaluated the articles for relevancy, 49 articles were reviewed. In general, all treatment modalities were proven to be clinically effective in reducing dry eye (DE) signs and symptoms; however, the level of improvement and persistence of outcomes differed amongst them. Meta-analysis indicated significant improvement in the Ocular Surface Disease Index (OSDI) scores post-treatment with a standardized mean difference (SMD) = -1.63; confidence interval (CI): -2.42 to -0.84. Moreover, a meta-analysis indicated a significant improvement in tear break-up time (TBUT) test values with SMD = 1.77; CI: 0.49 to 3.05. Research suggests that additive therapies, such as meibomian gland expression (MGX), sodium hyaluronate eye drops, heated eye mask, warm compress, lid hygiene, lid margin scrub, eyelid massage, antibiotic drops, cyclosporine drops, omega-3 supplements, steroid drops, and warm compresses along with IPL, have been found to work in tandem for greater effectiveness; however, in clinical practice, its feasibility and cost-effectiveness have to be taken into consideration. Current findings suggest that IPL therapy is suitable when lifestyle modifications such as reducing or eliminating the use of contact lenses, lubricating eye drops/gels, and warm compresses/eye masks fail to improve signs and symptoms of DE. Moreover, patients with compliance issues have been shown to benefit well as the effects of IPL therapy is sustained for over several months. DED is a multifactorial disorder, and IPL therapy has been found to be safe and efficient in reducing its signs and symptoms of meibomian gland dysfunction (MGD)-related DE. Although the treatment protocol varies among authors, current findings suggest that IPL has a positive effect on the signs and symptoms of MGD-related DE. However, patients in the early stages can benefit more from IPL therapy. Moreover, IPL has a better maintenance impact when used in

TOPIC: To evaluate the efficacy and safety of interventions for treating eye strain related to computer use relative to placebo or no treatment. CLINICAL RELEVANCE: Computer use is pervasive and often associated with eye strain, referred to as computer vision syndrome (CVS). Currently, no clinical guidelines exist to help practitioners provide evidence-based advice about CVS treatments, many of which are marketed directly to patients. This systematic review and meta-analysis was designed to help inform best practice for eye care providers. METHODS: Eligible randomized controlled trials (RCTs) were identified in Ovid MEDLINE, Embase, the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, and trial registries, searched from inception through November 23, 2021. Eligible studies were appraised for risk of bias and were synthesized. The certainty of the body of evidence was judged using the Grading of Recommendations, Assessment, Development, and Evaluation system. Standardized mean differences (SMDs) were used when differently scaled measures were combined. RESULTS: Forty-five RCTs, involving 4497 participants, were included. Multifocal lenses did not improve visual fatigue scores compared with single-vision lenses (3 RCTs; SMD, 0.11; 95% confidence interval [CI], -0.14 to 0.37; P = 0.38). Visual fatigue symptoms were not reduced by blue-blocking spectacles (3 RCTs), with evidence judged of low certainty. Relative to placebo, oral berry extract supplementation did not improve visual fatigue (7 RCTs; SMD, -0.27; 95% CI, -0.70 to 0.16; P = 0.22) or dry eye symptoms (4 RCTs; SMD, -0.10; 95% CI, -0.54 to 0.33; P = 0.65). Likewise, berry extract supplementation had no significant effects on critical flicker-fusion frequency (CFF) or accommodative amplitude. Oral omega-3 supplementation for 45 days to 3 months improved dry eye symptoms (2 RCTs; mean difference [MD], -3.36; 95% CI, -3.63 to -3.10 on an 18 unit scale; P < 0.00001) relative to placebo. Oral carotenoid supplementation improved CFF (2 RCTs; MD, 1.55 Hz; 95% CI, 0.42 to 2.67 Hz; P = 0.007) relative to placebo, although the clinical significance of this finding is unclear. DISCUSSION: We did not identify high-certa

BACKGROUND: Polyunsaturated fatty acid (PUFA) supplements, involving omega-3 and/or omega-6 components, have been proposed as a therapy for dry eye. Omega-3 PUFAs exist in both short- (alpha-linolenic acid [ALA]) and long-chain (eicosapentaenoic acid [EPA] and docosahexaenoic acid [DHA]) forms, which largely derive from certain plant- and marine-based foods respectively. Omega-6 PUFAs are present in some vegetable oils, meats, and other animal products. OBJECTIVES: To assess the effects of omega-3 and omega-6 polyunsaturated fatty acid (PUFA) supplements on dry eye signs and symptoms. SEARCH METHODS: CENTRAL, Medline, Embase, two other databases and three trial registries were searched in February 2018, together with reference checking. A top-up search was conducted in October 2019, but the results have not yet been incorporated. SELECTION CRITERIA: We included randomized controlled trials (RCTs) involving dry eye participants, in which omega-3 and/or omega-6 supplements were compared with a placebo/control supplement, artificial tears, or no treatment. We included head-to-head trials comparing different forms or doses of PUFAs. DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS: We followed standard Cochrane methods and assessed the certainty of the evidence using GRADE. MAIN RESULTS: We included 34 RCTs, involving 4314 adult participants from 13 countries with dry eye of variable severity and etiology. Follow-up ranged from one to 12 months. Nine (26.5%) studies had published protocols and/or were registered. Over half of studies had high risk of bias in one or more domains. Long-chain omega-3 (EPA and DHA) versus placebo or no treatment (10 RCTs) We found low certainty evidence that there may be little to no reduction in dry eye symptoms with long-chain omega-3 versus placebo (four studies, 677 participants; mean difference [MD] -2.47, 95% confidence interval [CI] -5.14 to 0.19 units). We found moderate certainty evidence for a probable benefit of long-chain omega-3 supplements in increasing aqueous tear production relative to placebo (six studies, 1704 participants; MD 0.68, 95% CI 0.26 to 1.09 mm/5 min using the Schirmer test), although we did not judge this difference to be cli

To investigate the effects of polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) in patients with dry eye disease (DED), a multifactorial inflammatory disorder, we searched Cochrane Library, EMBASE, PubMed, and Web of Science for randomized clinical trials (RCTs) investigating the effect of PUFAs in patients with DED before March 2019. Two reviewers independently abstracted data of tear breakup time (TBUT), Schirmer's test, osmolarity, and ocular surface disease index (OSDI). We conducted pairwise meta-analysis using means and standard deviations (SDs) in a random-effects model for continuous outcomes. Thirteen eligible RCTs with 1782 patients with nonspecific typical DED were included. Patients who received PUFA treatment without other eye medications exhibited greater improvements in TBUT (MD = 1.80; p = 0.001), Schirmer test scores (MD = 0.50; p < 0.001), osmolarity (MD = -15.95; p < 0.001), and OSDI scores (MD = -10.19; p < 0.001) than those who received placebo treatment. However, the effects of PUFAs on TBUT (p < 0.001) and OSDI scores (p = 0.03) weakened with treatment duration. PUFAs are effective in treating nonspecific typical DED, particularly as a short-term treatment, with relatively few adverse events. Therefore, in real-world clinical practice, PUFA supplements are worth being suggested to patients with nonspecific typical DED who are not concurrently using other topical or systematic eye medications.

PURPOSE: To assess whether omega-3 fatty acid (FA) supplementation is more efficacious than placebo in amelioration of signs and symptoms of dry eye disease. METHODS: We performed a systematic literature search in PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, and Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials databases. We included randomized clinical trials comparing omega-3 FA supplementation with placebo in patients with dry eye disease. The outcome measures were dry eye symptoms, breakup time (BUT), Schirmer test, and corneal fluorescein staining. The pooled effect sizes were estimated using a random-effects model. Heterogeneity was evaluated using the Q and I tests. Sensitivity analysis and assessment of publication bias were performed. Meta-regression was performed to evaluate the source of heterogeneity. RESULTS: Seventeen randomized clinical trials involving 3363 patients were included. Compared with placebo, omega-3 FA supplementation decreased dry eye symptoms [standardized difference in mean values (SDM) = 0.968; 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.554-1.383; P < 0.001] and corneal fluorescein staining (SDM = 0.517; 95% CI, 0.043-0.991; P = 0.032), whereas it increased the BUT (SDM = 0.905; 95% CI, 0.564-1.246; P < 0.001) and Schirmer test values (SDM = 0.905; 95% CI, 0.564-1.246; P < 0.001). No evidence of publication bias was observed, and sensitivity analyses indicated the robustness of results obtained. Meta-regression analysis showed a higher improvement of dry eye symptoms and BUT in studies conducted in India. CONCLUSIONS: This meta-analysis provides evidence that omega-3 FA supplementation significantly improves dry eye symptoms and signs in patients with dry eye disease. Therefore, our findings indicate that omega-3 FA supplementation may be an effective treatment for dry eye disease.

BACKGROUND: Dry eye is a common, complex condition that can reduce ocular comfort and visual performance. The impact on quality of life has been rated as similar to the effect of moderate angina and, in more severe cases, dialysis and severe angina. This study aimed to use meta-analysis to compare omega-3 fatty acid and placebo fatty acid in the management of dry eye syndrome. MATERIAL AND METHODS: Comparative studies published until 1 June 2014 were searched through a comprehensive search of the Medline, Embase, Web of Science, and the Cochrane Library electronic databases. A systematic review and cumulative analysis of comparative studies reporting the effect of omega-3 fatty acid on dry eye syndrome was conducted. All analyses were performed using the Review Manager (RevMan) v.5 software (Nordic Cochrane Centre, Copenhagen, Denmark). RESULTS: The trials involved a total of 790 participants in 7 independent studies. All the studies are published between 2007 and 2013. Meta-analysis of the 5 studies that reported data in mean SD values revealed that the tear break-up time (TBUT) was significantly greater by 1.58 s (WMD=1.58, 95% CI=0.60 to 2.55; P=0.007). Combination of all the Schirmer's test data showed that omega-3 fatty acid supplementation could significantly improve the Schirmer's test (WMD=0.74, 95% CI=0.29 to 1.19; P=0.001). However, the combination of all the OSDI test data showed that omega-3 fatty acid supplementation did not significantly improve the OSDI test results (WMD=-4.54, 95% CI=-9.85 to 0.78; P=0.09). CONCLUSIONS: Based on the data included in our meta-analysis, omega-3 fatty acid was associated with better TBUT and Schirmer's. No significant differences were detected in OSDI test results. Consequently, our findings suggest that omega-3 fatty acid offers is an effective therapy for dry eye syndrome.

BACKGROUND/OBJECTIVES: Lid margin collarettes are a distinct clinical finding and their association with meibomian gland dysfunction (MGD) and dry eye symptoms and signs remains uncertain. We leverage the large cohort of subjects in the Dry Eye Assessment and Management (DREAM) study data to elucidate collarettes' impact on dry eye disease (DED). SUBJECTS/METHODS: We performed secondary analysis of DREAM study data, a multicentre, double-blinded clinical trial evaluating omega-3 supplementation in patients with moderate-to-severe DED. DED symptoms (Ocular Surface Disease Index [OSDI] and Ocular Discomfort) and signs (conjunctival staining, corneal staining, tear break-up time (TBUT), Schirmer test, MGD grade) were compared by collarette presence and severity. Data from all visits (baseline, months 3, 6, 12) were assessed and adjusted for demographics and baseline comorbidities. RESULTS: Of 1070 eyes at baseline, 65.3% had no collarettes, 28.0% had 1-5, and 6.6% had 6-20. Over the 1 year period of the study, 67% of eyes had no change in collarette severity, while 19% had increased severity and 14% had decreased severity. Collarettes were more common in Whites (82.1% vs 69.9%, p = 0.001), non-Hispanics (92.3% vs 83.2%, p = 0.006), and those with facial rosacea (25.0% vs 17.7%, p = 0.05). Multivariate analysis showed collarettes were associated with increased corneal staining (5.06 vs 4.59, p = 0.01), decreased TBUT (3.24 vs 3.54 s, p = 0.01), decreased Schirmer test (7.92 vs 8.63, p = 0.04), more severe eyelid erythema (18.6% vs 12.2%, p < 0.001), and higher composite DED sign severity (0.51 vs 0.49, p = 0.03). However, they were not associated with conjunctival staining, MGD grade, or DED symptoms (p ≥ 0.30). Similar findings were observed in comparisons of collarette severity. Subjects with collarettes had lower tear levels of IL-1β (p = 0.04), IL-10 (p = 0.02), and INF-γ (p = 0.001). CONCLUSIONS: Collarettes were common in patients with moderate-to-severe DED, and most do not progress over time. Although they were associated with worse ocular surface signs, notably eyelid erythema, no association was found with dry eye symptoms. Our results will help physicians

Background/Aims: To investigate the effectiveness of re-esterified triglyceride form of omega 3 (rTG-omega 3) on patients with meibomian gland dysfunction (MGD) after cataract surgery. Methods: This multicenter, randomized, investigator-blinded, clinical study was conducted between June 2021 and March 2023 and enrolled 107 patients with MGD who had undergone cataract surgery within 3 months at seven sites across South Korea. Patients were randomly assigned to rTG-omega 3 group or a control group. We compared (1) tear film break-up time (TBUT) (s), (2) corneal fluorescein staining score [National Eye Institute/Industry (NEI) scale], (3) conjunctival fluorescein staining score (NEI scale), (4) strip meniscometry (SM) tube score (mm), (5) MGD stage, (6) MG quality, (7) MG expressibility, (8) Standard Patient Evaluation of Eye Dryness (SPEED) score, and (9) Ocular Surface Disease Index (OSDI) scores at baseline and 6 and 12 weeks. Results: TBUT, corneal fluorescein staining score, and SM tube score were significantly improved in the rTG-omega 3 group compared with control group (P = 0.005, P = 0.003, and P = 0.0049, respectively). Subjective questionnaire responses were also improved significantly (SPEED score, P = 0.022; OSDI score, P = 0.0011). MGD parameters were not significantly different. However, during subanalysis, significant improvements in MG quality and expressibility were observed in the MGD stage 4 group with rTG-omega 3 supplementation (P = 0.0177 and P = 0.0205, respectively). Discussion: rTG-omega 3 supplementation facilitated improvements in both objective and subjective parameters. In particular, MG quality and expressibility were significantly improved in the severe MGD group.

Comment in JAMA Ophthalmol. 2024 Jul 1;142(7):625-626. doi: 10.1001/jamaophthalmol.2024.1658. IMPORTANCE: Taking ω-3 supplements has been associated with a reduction in symptoms of dry eye disease (DED) associated with meibomian gland dysfunction (MGD). However, a recent relatively large clinical trial concluded that treating DED with ω-3 consumption was ineffective, potentially warranting additional investigations. OBJECTIVES: To investigate the effect of re-esterified triglyceride (rTG) ω-3 fatty acid supplementation on DED associated with MGD. DESIGN, SETTING, AND PARTICIPANTS: This double-masked, parallel-group, randomized clinical trial was conducted at 7 institutions from September 2020 to January 2023. Patients with DED associated with MGD were included and randomly assigned to the ω-3 group (received 1680 mg of eicosapentaenoic acid and 560 mg of docosahexaenoic acid), whereas those in the grape-seed group received 3000 mg of grape-seed oil daily. INTERVENTIONS: rTG ω-3 Fatty acid supplementation vs grape-seed oil. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES: The primary end point was the Ocular Surface Disease Index (OSDI) from baseline to 6 and 12 weeks. The safety parameters were visual acuity and intraocular pressure change. RESULTS: A total of 132 patients (mean [SD] age, 50.6 [13.8] years; 103 female [78.0%]) were included in this study. The mean (SD) baseline OSDI scores of the ω-3 and grape-seed groups were 43.5 (16.5) and 44.1 (16.6), respectively. A total of 58 patients (87.9%) and 57 patients (86.4%) in the ω-3 and grape-seed groups, respectively, completed 12 weeks of follow-up. There were no differences in compliance with the dietary supplement intake between groups (ω-3, 95.8% and grape-seed, 95.4%). The OSDI (SD) change from baseline to 6 and 12 weeks was -20.5 (16.0) and -22.7 (15.7), respectively, in the ω-3 group and -15.1 (20.2) and -18.8 (21.7), respectively, in the grape-seed control group (difference at 6 weeks = -5.4; 95% CI, -12.15 to 1.33; P = .12 and at 12 weeks = -3.9; 95% CI, -10.90 to 3.13; P = .28). There were no changes in safety parameters or adverse events related to taking the dietary supplement in either group. CONCLUSIONS AND RELEVANCE: Th

PURPOSE: The purpose of this study was to evaluate the progression of dry eye disease (DED) symptoms and signs over 2 years through a secondary analysis of data collected from the Dry Eye Assessment and Management study. METHODS: Participants who were assigned to omega-3 fatty acid in the first year were rerandomized in the second year to either continue with omega-3 fatty acid or switch to placebo. At baseline, 3, 6, 12, 18, and 24 months, DED symptoms were evaluated by using the Ocular Surface Disease Index and the Brief Ocular Discomfort Index (BODI). DED signs were assessed using conjunctival staining, corneal staining, tear break-up time, Schirmer testing, and keratography measures. Medication usage was documented at each visit. Because the treatment and placebo groups displayed no statistical differences in both signs and symptoms, data from the 43 participants were combined to assess longitudinal changes in symptoms and signs. RESULTS: At 3 months after omega-3 fatty acid treatment, there were significant improvements from baseline in Ocular Surface Disease Index and Brief Ocular Discomfort Index scores (all P ≤ 0.002) and less use of artificial tears or gel ( P = 0.02), but between 3 and 24 months, no significant changes in symptoms and treatments were observed ( P ≥ 0.06). Except for a significant improvement in conjunctival staining score over 2 years ( P = 0.001), there were no significant sign changes in corneal staining ( P = 0.32), tear break-up time ( P = 0.43), Schirmer test ( P = 0.09), and additional measures (all P ≥ 0.07). CONCLUSIONS: We did not observe a progression of DED signs or symptoms over a 2-year period, except for a probable placebo response in symptoms in the first 3 months and an improvement in conjunctival staining score.

PURPOSE: To evaluate effectiveness of omega-3 fatty acid supplements in relieving dry eye symptoms and signs in symptomatic visual display terminal users (VDT). METHODS: A randomized controlled study was done; eyes of 470 VDT users were randomized to receive four capsules twice daily for 6 months (O3FAgroup), each containing 180 mg of eicosapentaenoic acid and 120 mg docosahexaenoic acid. The O3FA group was compared with another group (n = 480) who received four capsules of a placebo (olive oil) twice daily. Patients were evaluated at baseline, 1, 3, and 6 months, respectively. The primary outcome was improvement in omega-3 index (a measure of EPA and DHA ratio in RBC membrane). Secondary outcomes were improvement dry eye symptoms, Nelson grade on conjunctival impression cytology, Schirmer test values, tear film breakup time (TBUT), and tear film osmolarity. Means of groups (pre-treatment, 1, 3, and 6-months) were compared with repeated measure analysis of variance. RESULTS: At baseline, 81% patients had low omega-3 index. In the O3FA group, a significant increase in omega-3 index, improvement in symptoms, reduction in tear film osmolarity, and increase in Schirmer, TBUT, and goblet cell density was observed. These changes were not significant in the placebo group. Improvement in test parameters was significantly (P < 0.001) better in patients with low omega3 index (<4%) subgroup. CONCLUSION: Dietary omega-3 fatty acids are effective for dry eye in VDT users; omega-3 index appears to be the predictor to identify potential dry eye patients who are likely to benefit from oral omega-3 dietary intervention.

PURPOSE: To determine the relationships of (1) tear osmolarity (TO) levels with the severity of signs and symptoms of dry eye disease (DED) and (2) changes in TO with changes in signs and symptoms. METHODS: Patients (N = 405) with moderate to severe DED in the Dry Eye Assessment and Management (DREAM) Study were evaluated at baseline and at six and 12 months. Associations of TO with signs and symptoms were evaluated using Pearson correlation coefficient (r) and regression models. RESULTS: The mean (standard deviation [SD]) TO was 303 (16) mOsm/L at baseline and 303 (18) mOsm/L at both six and 12 months. TO was higher in older patients (306 mOsm/L for ≥70 years vs. 300 mOsm/L for <50 years; P = 0.01) and those with Sjögren's disease (311 vs. 302 mOsm/L; P < 0.0001). TO did not differ between patients randomized to placebo and omega-3 fatty acid supplementation. TO was weakly correlated with conjunctival (r = 0.18; P < 0.001) and corneal staining scores (r = 0.17; P < 0.001), tear film break-up time (r = 0.06; P = 0.03), and Schirmer test score (r = -0.07; P = 0.02) but not with Ocular Surface Disease Index scores (r = 0.03; P = 0.40). Changes in signs and were not significantly correlated with change in TO at six or 12 months. CONCLUSIONS: Within DREAM, TO was weakly correlated with DED signs, explaining <5% variability in signs. Changes in tear osmolarity were not associated with changes in signs and symptoms of DED, indicating that the association may not be causal.

PURPOSE: Dry eye disease (DED) is a heterogeneous condition with poorly characterized subtypes. The DREAM study was a large multicenter randomized clinical trial that did not find omega-3 to be more effective than placebo in treating symptomatic DED. We performed secondary analysis of DREAM data to characterize DED subtypes and their omega-3 response. METHODS: A total of 535 patients with moderate-to-severe DED were randomized to omega-3 or placebo treatment for one year. We used latent profile analysis to identify subtypes based on baseline Ocular Surface Disease Index, tear break-up time (TBUT), anesthetized Schirmer's test, corneal and conjunctival staining, and meibomian gland dysfunction (MGD). We evaluated omega-3's effect for each subtype using generalized linear regression. RESULTS: Five clinically meaningful DED subtypes were identified. They differed significantly in sex (P < 0.001) and race (P = 0.02). Subtype 1 had the most severe DED signs yet milder symptoms and was associated with more Sjögren's syndrome (21%, P < 0.001). Subtype 2 had the mildest DED signs except MGD. Subtype 3 had the most severe symptoms, out of proportion to DED signs. Subtype 4 had relatively milder symptoms and MGD. Subtype 5 had severe MGD and TBUT and was associated with rosacea (29%, P = 0.04). Omega-3 was not significantly more beneficial than placebo for any subtype. CONCLUSIONS: Five clinically meaningful DED subtypes differed significantly in demographics, symptoms, signs, and systemic disease associations. Omega-3 was not significantly more effective than placebo for any subtype. TRANSLATIONAL RELEVANCE: T3 translational research identifying subtypes in the DREAM study can improve DED clinical classification and targeted management.

Due to their antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, neuroprotective, and anti-angiogenic effects, polyphenols are first-rate candidates to prevent or treat chronic diseases in which oxidative stress-induced inflammation plays a role in disease pathogenesis. Dry eye disease (DED) is a common pathology, on which novel phenolic compound formulations have been tested as an adjuvant therapeutic approach. However, polyphenols are characterized by limited stability and solubility, insolubility in water, very rapid metabolism, and a very short half-life. Thus, they show poor bioavailability. To overcome these limitations and improve their stability and bioavailability, we evaluated the safety and efficacy of an oral formulation containing among other compounds, polyphenols and omega-3 fatty acids, with the addition of a surfactant in patients with DED. Subjects were randomly assigned to one of four study groups including the study formulation (A), placebo (P), the study formulation + eye lubricant (A + L), and placebo + eye lubricant (P + L). Patients from the A and P groups were instructed to take two capsules every 24 h, while patients in the L groups also added one drop of lubricant twice a day for 12 weeks as well. Regarding safety, non-ocular abnormalities were observed during study formulation therapy. Liver function tests did not show any statistically significant difference (baseline vs. week 4). Concerning efficacy, there was a statistically significant difference between baseline, month 1, and month 3 in the OSDI (Ocular Surface Disease Index) test results in both treatment groups (group A and group A + L). Furthermore, both groups showed statistically significant differences between baseline and month 3 regarding the non-invasive film tear breakup time (NIF-BUT) score and a positive trend related to Shirmer's test at month 3. The non-invasive average breakup time (NIAvg-BUT) score showed a statistically significant difference at month 3 when compared with baseline in the A + L group. The P + L group showed a statistically significant difference in terms of the OSDI questionary between baseline and month 3. Regarding the lissamine green staining, the A + L group show

OBJECTIVES: To determine effect of omega-3 supplementation on conjunctival cell HLA-DR expression and tear concentrations of interleukin (IL)-1β, IL-6, IL-8, IL-10, IL-17A, interferon-γ, and tumor necrosis factor-α in dry eye disease patients in the Dry Eye Assessment and Management study. METHODS: Patients were randomized to receive a daily dose of eicosapentaenoic and docosahexaenoic acids (ω3) or refined olive oil (placebo) for 12 months. At baseline, 6 and 12 months, HLA-DR expression in conjunctival total, epithelial, and white blood cells and cytokine concentration in tears were determined. Differences in change from baseline between treatment groups were assessed using generalized estimating equations (HLA-DR) or Wilcoxon rank-sum test (cytokines). RESULTS: No differences were observed in HLA-DR expression in total, epithelial, or white blood cells between ω3 and placebo groups at 6 months (n=435) or 12 months (n=436). The median concentration percent change differed between ω3 and placebo groups at 6 months for IL-6 (-36.6 vs. 24.5%, P =0.02, n=75) and for IL-8 (3.7% vs. 72.6%, P =0.02, n=68); at 12 months, they did not differ ( P ≥0.18). No other differences between the treatment groups were detected. CONCLUSIONS: ω3 supplementation did not consistently affect ocular inflammatory status as measured by the frequency of HLA-DR expressing conjunctival cells or tear cytokines.

Erratum in JAMA Ophthalmol. 2022 Sep 1;140(9):912. doi: 10.1001/jamaophthalmol.2022.2891. Comment in JAMA Ophthalmol. 2022 Jul 1;140(7):714-715. doi: 10.1001/jamaophthalmol.2022.1821. IMPORTANCE: Results of several small randomized clinical trials have suggested that supplements of marine ω-3 fatty acids may be beneficial in treating signs and symptoms of dry eye disease (DED). However, randomized clinical trial data to examine whether ω-3 fatty acid supplements can prevent DED are lacking. OBJECTIVE: To evaluate whether long-term daily supplementation with marine ω-3 fatty acids prevents the development of DED. DESIGN, SETTING, AND PARTICIPANTS: This was a prespecified ancillary study of the Vitamin D and Omega-3 Trial (VITAL), a nationwide randomized double-blind placebo-controlled 2 × 2 factorial trial of vitamin D and marine ω-3 fatty acids in the primary prevention of cancer and cardiovascular disease. Participants in this ancillary study were 23 523 US adults (men 50 years and older and women 55 years and older) who at study entry were free of a previous diagnosis of DED and were not experiencing severe dry eye symptoms. Participants were enrolled from November 2011 to March 2014, and treatment and follow-up ended on December 31, 2017. Data were analyzed from January 2020 to August 2021. INTERVENTIONS: Marine ω-3 fatty acids, 1 g per day. MAIN OUTCOMES AND MEASURES: The primary end point was incident clinically diagnosed DED confirmed by review of the medical records. The secondary end point was a composite of all confirmed incident clinically diagnosed DED cases plus all incident reports of severe DED symptoms. RESULTS: The mean (SD) age of the 23 523 participants included in the analysis was 67.0 (7.0) years, and 11 349 participants (48.3%) were women. The cohort included 4610 participants (20.0%) who self-identified as Black, 16 481 (71.6%) who self-identified as non-Hispanic White, and 1927 (8.4%) of other racial or ethnic groups or who declined to respond, consolidated owing to small numbers, including American Indian or Alaska Native, Asian, Hispanic or Latino, and Native Hawaiian or Other Pacific Islander. During a median (range) 5.3 (3.8-6.1) yea

BACKGROUND: Dry eye disease is one of the most frequent surface diseases of the human eye. Although its etiology has not yet been established in detail, inflammatory components are increasingly considered as key factors in the development of the disease. Through inflammatory cascades stress at the ocular surface induces the release of reactive oxygen species (ROS), which additionally lead to oxidative stress. The end point of this cascade is the secretion of mediators of inflammation, which again release ROS. Corneal epithelial cells and goblet cells lose their integrity, further fueling tear film destabilization and ocular surface damage. AIM OF THE STUDY (OBJECTIVE): Various foodstuffs and nutrients are known for their antioxidative and/or anti-inflammatory characteristics, leading to an increasing interest of the role of nutritional supplements in the treatment of different diseases. This review summarizes dietary supplements that have shown positive effects on the ocular surface in dry eye disease in clinical studies. MATERIAL AND METHODS: A systematic review was performed for studies published in English on the use of dietary supplements in the treatment of dry eye disease up to July 2025 analyzing quantitative or qualitative data. PubMed served as the database, the sub-items of the review (essential fatty acids, vitamins, trace elements, minerals, plant substances and probiotics) were used as keywords. The results included reflect the clinical relevance and application possibilities, which evaluated the impact of dietary supplements in the treatment of dry eye disease. RESULTS: The most important nutrient categories associated with dry eye disease include essential fatty acids, vitamins, trace elements, minerals, phytochemicals, and probiotics. Oral supplementation has shown positive effects, although frequent blood count tests to determine levels are essential in cases of long-term use. Omega fatty acids are the most comprehensively studied dietary supplements with the highest rate of randomized controlled trials (evidence level 1). CONCLUSION: Nutritional dietary supplementation is promising but there is a need for further clinical research, especially r

Background: The increasing prevalence of high-fat diets is associated with a rise in metabolic and neurodegenerative diseases. The retina and retinal pigment epithelium are metabolically active tissues exposed to oxidative stress, making them particularly vulnerable to lipid excess. Materials and Methods: A systematic literature review was conducted covering years until 2025 inclusive. Results: High-fat diets lead to cholesterol accumulation and lipid metabolism disturbances in the retina, retinal pigment epithelium, and ocular vessels. They activate inflammatory and oxidative stress pathways, resulting in structural and functional damage. Omega-3 deficiency exacerbates inflammation, while supplementation improves the tear film stability, corneal epithelial function, intraocular pressure regulation, and exerts neuroprotective effects. Conclusions: High-fat diets represent a significant risk factor for ocular diseases by disrupting lipid metabolism, enhancing inflammation, and inducing oxidative stress. Omega-3 fatty acid supplementation reduces inflammation and supports ocular functions.

INTRODUCTION: N-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (n-3 PUFA) are important for mammals and have relevant functions in the body. These fatty acids play an important role in brain development, in the protection of the retina, and in the prevention of macular degeneration. Currently, clinical trials do not yet confirm a clear benefit of n-3 PUFA supplementation on vision throughout the life cycle. Therefore, the aim of this study is to systematically evaluate the available scientific evidence to determine the effects of n-3 PUFA supplementation on visual health throughout the life cycle. MATERIAL AND METHODS: A search of scientific literature was performed, based on randomized, controlled clinical studies, published in PubMed, using keywords. We included people of both sexes throughout the life cycle that evaluated the impact of n-3 PUFA supplementation on visual health. RESULTS: Of the 87 articles included in this review, there are important contradictions in the literature regarding the effects of supplementation in pregnant women, infants and older adults. While some studies highlight beneficial effects, an equal number of studies report no impact. In the case of preschoolers and schoolchildren, predominantly positive effects were identified, especially in children with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD). For youth and adults, the impact of supplementation varied according to the health condition assessed, mostly supporting significant benefits in individuals with dry eye symptoms. CONCLUSION: Evidence supports supplementation with n-3 PUFA, especially docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), to improve visual development in infants, schoolchildren, especially those with ADHD. Despite variability in visual outcomes, these findings suggest a crucial role of n-3 PUFA supplementation in visual health in the first steps of life, but in adults and older adults remain uncertain or null. Therefore, it is critical to investigate optimal dosing, duration of the intervention as the age of the participants in future research.

Comment in Ocul Surf. 2023 Jul;29:416-421. doi: 10.1016/j.jtos.2023.06.006. Eye strain when performing tasks reliant on a digital environment can cause discomfort, affecting productivity and quality of life. Digital eye strain (the preferred terminology) was defined as "the development or exacerbation of recurrent ocular symptoms and/or signs related specifically to digital device screen viewing". Digital eye strain prevalence of up to 97% has been reported, due to no previously agreed definition/diagnostic criteria and limitations of current questionnaires which fail to differentiate such symptoms from those arising from non-digital tasks. Objective signs such as blink rate or critical flicker frequency changes are not 'diagnostic' of digital eye strain nor validated as sensitive. The mechanisms attributed to ocular surface disease exacerbation are mainly reduced blink rate and completeness, partial/uncorrected refractive error and/or underlying binocular vision anomalies, together with the cognitive demand of the task and differences in position, size, brightness and glare compared to an equivalent non-digital task. In general, interventions are not well established; patients experiencing digital eye strain should be provided with a full refractive correction for the appropriate working distances. Improving blinking, optimizing the work environment and encouraging regular breaks may help. Based on current, best evidence, blue-light blocking interventions do not appear to be an effective management strategy. More and larger clinical trials are needed to assess artificial tear effectiveness for relieving digital eye strain, particularly comparing different constituents; a systematic review within the report identified use of secretagogues and warm compress/humidity goggles/ambient humidifiers as promising strategies, along with nutritional supplementation (such as omega-3 fatty acid supplementation and berry extracts).

Dry eye is a common inflammatory condition of the ocular surface. While oral omega-3 supplementation for its treatment has been extensively studied, recent large-scale studies have cast doubt on their efficacy. However, efficacy of topical omega-3 has yet to be reviewed. We performed a systematic search of PubMed, Embase, and Cochrane databases for all studies evaluating topical omega-3 in dry eye. Five human and five animal studies were included. Of the five human studies, two were on dry eye disease (DED), one was on contact lens discomfort, and two were on patients undergoing corneal collagen crosslinking. In humans, there is promising evidence for improved ocular surface staining and tear break-up time compared to controls, equivocal evidence for improvements to ocular surface symptoms and meibomian gland dysfunction, and no effect on increasing tear production. Data from animal models largely agree with these findings, and further reveal decreased inflammatory cytokines and monocyte infiltration. Our review suggests that topical omega-3 is a promising treatment for dry eye, but also points to the paucity of evidence in this field. Further trials in humans are required to characterize effects of topical omega-3 and optimize its dosage.

OBJECTIVE: To describe a patient with Sjögren syndrome (SS) associated with obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD). PATIENTS AND METHODS: Case report and systematic review of the literature. CASE REPORT: A 40-year-old female patient with a history of xerostomia and xerophthalmia initiated in 2015. She also had a history of changing her behavior, and she practices rituals, recurrent obsessions, and compulsions. She was diagnosed with OCD. She was treated with fluoxetine associated with risperidone and then was changed for aripiprazole 10 mg/day. Cognitive-behavioral therapy was also applied. She had good control of the obsessions with these drugs and psychotherapy. Laboratory tests showed positive antinuclear antibodies, anti-Ro/SS-A, and-La/SS-B antibodies. Schirmer test, break up time, and positive green lisamin were all positive. Scintigraphy and ultrasound of salivary glands were positive. A diagnosis of Sjögren syndrome was determined. She was treated with HCQ, vitamin D3 50,000 IU/week, omega-3 2 g, and artificial tears with a good response. Currently, 5 years later, the patient is asymptomatic and has OCD under adequate control even without drugs. CONCLUSIONS: This case illustrates a rare case of a patient with SS who evolved with OCD.