Neuropathic pain and dry eye

Ocul Surf. 2018 Jan;16(1):31-44. doi: 10.1016/j.jtos.2017.10.001. Epub 2017 Oct 12.

Abstract

Dry eye is a common, multifactorial disease currently diagnosed by a combination of symptoms and signs. Its epidemiology and clinical presentation have many similarities with neuropathic pain outside the eye. This review highlights the similarities between dry eye and neuropathic pain, focusing on clinical features, somatosensory function, and underlying pathophysiology. Implications of these similarities on the diagnosis and treatment of dry eye are discussed.

Keywords: Dry eye; Genetics; Inflammation; Nerve sensitization; Neuropathic pain; Treatment.

Publication types

  • Research Support, N.I.H., Extramural
  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Research Support, U.S. Gov't, Non-P.H.S.
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Diagnosis, Differential
  • Dry Eye Syndromes / diagnosis*
  • Dry Eye Syndromes / physiopathology
  • Humans
  • Neuralgia / diagnosis*
  • Neuralgia / physiopathology