Περίληψη:
Sjogren’s syndrome (SS) is an autoimmune disorder, the principal ocular
manifestation of which is decreased tear production leading to chronic
irritation and damage to the corneal and conjunctival epithelium. The
most important advance in the treatment of ocular manifestations of SS
is the introduction of topical anti-inflammatory agents such as
cyclosporine A, which increases tear production and decreases symptoms
without any significant side effect. Stimulators of tear secretion, both
topical, such as diquafosol, and systemic, such as pilocarpine and
cevimeline, are also effective, although they have been associated with
frequent side effects. Topical use of autologous serum is another new
and effective form of treatment, but problems in the preparations
prevent their widespread use. Additionally, nonpharmacologic treatments,
such as insertion of punctal plugs, are beneficial in the dry eye of SS,
whereas several other modalities, such as anti-CD4 monoclonal antibody
eye drops and gene transfer, are still in experimental phases.
