Current developments of intensive pulsed light treatment for dry eye disease and meibomian gland dysfunction

Abstract

ABSTRACT Introduction : Dry eye disease (DED) associated with meibomian gland dysfunction (MGD) is one of the most frequent eye diseases, with a prevalence from 10% of the Western population to 70% in Asian countries. Today there is no fully effective treatment and alternatives such as intensive pulsed light (IPL) are being sought. The results with IPL highlights show subjective improvement of the patients when the treatment is carried out with four sessions and with parameters adapted to ophthalmological use. Most studies show improvement in 80–90% of the cases. Regarding the mechanisms of action, there are several possible effects of IPL and the most of them have a common denominator, the reduction of inflammation on ocular surface and around the meibomian glands, favoring tissues regeneration and neuro-trophism who are responsible for the improvement reported by patients. Areas covered : We analyze possible mechanisms of action of IPL such as the importance of the parameters used for ophthalmological use. Expert opinion: Still having doubts about the exact mechanism of IPL action, the good clinical results obtained (efficacy and safety) encourage us to think that the incorporation of this new technology can help to improve these patients especially the symptoms they suffer.