Meibomian gland dysfunction and dry eye Diagnosis and treatment

The onset of dry eye complaints is often a result of Meibomian gland dysfunction and its diagnosis is essential for effective treatment. In the case of Meibomian gland dysfunction, there is an increased evaporation of the tear film due to the abnormal secretion of lipids that cannot spread on the ocular surface. The treatment of dry eye complaints associated with Meibomian gland dysfunction with tear supplementation is usually ineffective and only results in an intermittent relief of complaints. Meibomian gland dysfunction is often associated with Demodex infestation of the eyelids, and eradicating the mites is essential to re-establish normal meibum production and thus, decreasing ocular complaints. In most cases, Meibomian gland dysfunction is mild, and the treatment of these forms is based on ocular hygiene performed by the patient, while only more advanced forms with inflammatory processes require pharmacologic treatment. This review summarizes the most important knowledge on the clinical signs and treatment of Meibomian gland dysfunction with particular attention to the diagnosis and treatment of ocular Demodex infection.