Mask associated Dry Eye (MADE) during Covid-19 pandemic

Abstract

The widespread use of protective masks in the COVID-19 era has led to an increasing incidence of dry eye syndrome. In connection with this, a new disease unit emerged, called the “mask-associated dry eye” (MADE). The term was first used in June 2020. by American ophthalmologist Darrell E. White. There is a simple physical mechanism involved in the pathogenesis of mask-associated dry eye. When the protective mask is not placed correctly, the exhaled air is directed in the form of an air jet to the eye surface, creating conditions for destabilization of the tear film. As a result, irritation and discomfort occur, and patients with MADE begin to rub their eyes frequently for temporary relief, increasing the chance of contracting the Sars CoV-2 virus. MADE may aggravate symptoms in patients with pre-existing dry eye syndrome, postmenopausal dry eye syndrome in women, people using smart devices for more than 2 hours a day, and lead to more severe discomfort in patients after cataract or refractive surgery. Key words: MADE, protective masks, COVID-19