Efficacy of Low-Level Light Therapy in Combination With Topical Non-Steroidal Immunosuppressants for the Treatment of Dry Eye Disease
Efficacy of Low-Level Light Therapy in Combination With Topical Non-Steroidal Immunosuppressants for the Treatment of Dry Eye Disease
The objective of the study is to evaluate the effectiveness of Low-level light therapy (LLLT) in combination with either topical Cyclosporine A (CsA) or topical Tacrolimus, using each non-steroidal immunosuppressant as an active control.
Inclusion Criteria:
(1) Ocular Surface Disease Index (OSDI) score > 13; (2) non-invasive tear film break-up time (NIBUT) < 10 seconds; and (3) tear meniscus height < 0.25 mm.
Exclusion Criteria:
(1) structural abnormalities of the eyelids; (2) active blepharitis; (3) corneal disorders that could interfere with study assessments, such as active corneal infections or corneal dystrophies; (4) active ocular allergy; (5) history of procedures for DED treatment within the previous 12 months, such as eyelid exfoliation, thermal eyelid therapies, light therapies, or quantum molecular resonance (QMR); (6) history of intraocular or laser ocular surgery within the past 5 years; (7) current use of topical antibiotics or anti-inflammatory agents; (8) diagnosis of systemic autoimmune disease; (9) contact lens wear; (10) pregnancy or lactation; and (11) inability to understand or provide informed consent.