Platelet-Rich Plasma Therapy In The Management Of Dry Eye Disease: Clinical Outcomes And Practical Considerations

To evaluate the efficacy and safety of autologous platelet-rich plasma (PRP) therapy in patients with moderate to severe dry eye disease (DED) refractory to conventional treatment.

A prospective interventional case series including patients with moderate to severe DED unresponsive to artificial tears, topical anti-inflammatory therapy, and lid hygiene. Autologous PRP eye drops were prepared under sterile conditions and administered 4–6 times daily for 4–8 weeks.Outcome measures included Ocular Surface Disease Index(OSDI), tear break-up time (TBUT), corneal fluorescein staining (CFS), Schirmer test, and patient-reported symptom relief. Safety and tolerability were assessed.

PRP therapy resulted in significant improvement in subjective symptoms and objective ocular surface parameters,including increased TBUT and decreased corneal staining. Patients reported reduced burning, foreign body sensation, and visual fluctuation.The therapy was well tolerated, with no serious adverse events observed. Clinical improvement was particularly notable in patients with severe ocular surface inflammation and epithelial compromise.

Autologous PRP represents a promising regenerative approach for managing moderate to severe DED, especially in treatment-resistant cases. Its high concentration of growth factors may promote epithelial healing and ocular surface stabilization. Standardization of preparation protocols and larger controlled studies are warranted to further define its role in routine clinical practice.