Modern possibilities of pathogenetically oriented therapy for dry eye syndrome

Abstract

In recent years, anti-inflammatory therapy has become a significant part of the complex approach to treatment of patients with dry eye syndrome (DES), with cyclosporine preparations becoming increasingly important in the structure of the therapy. Taking into account the immunosuppressive effect of cyclosporine A, which is realized through hindering the activation of T-lymphocytes in the tissues of the ocular surface, its topical application in DES has a pronounced pathogenetic focus. Numerous clinical studies have shown that instillations of cyclosporine into the conjunctival cavity contribute to an increase in total tear production, as well as recovery of the density of goblet cells in the conjunctiva of DES patients. The positive effect of cyclosporine A instillations has been convincingly demonstrated in the complex therapy of patients with vernal and atopic corneal conjunctivitis, Thygeson's superficial punctate keratitis, autoimmune keratitis, meibomian gland dysfunction, etc. However, one significant problem associated with cyclosporine A instillations is the irritating effect of the drug. That prompted the development of a drug that is safe and tolerable during instillations into the conjunctival cavity - preservative-free 0.1% cyclosporine A labelled Ikervis (Santen, Japan). The drug carrier is artificial tear Cationorm (Santen), which has an advantage of stabilizing the tear film and protecting the ocular surface from the irritating effect of cyclosporine. According to numerous clinical studies, Ikervis instillations can improve the effectiveness of complex therapy in patients with DES (especially secondary to Sjögren syndrome, Stevens-Johnson syndrome, graft-versus-host disease), with allergic diseases of the cornea and conjunctiva (spring, atopic corneal conjunctivitis), with corneal transplant disease, and other similar conditions. The high efficacy and safety of Ikervis constitute the reason to recommend it for wide clinical use.