The now and future therapy of the non-Sjögren's dry eye.

The National Eye Institute/Industry Workshop Classification for Dry Eye was developed to coordinate clinical research in dry eye, but also provides a framework to consider the various therapeutic options for managing dry eye disease.1 This classification differentiates between evaporative and tear-deficient dry eye, although it is important to recognize that both mechanisms for development of dry eye may occur in any given patient. Traditional therapy for the dry eye has concentrated on tear replacement with a variety of topical solutions. As our understanding of the structure and function of the tearfilm has improved, so has our knowledge of the important interactions this tearfilm has with the eyelid and the ocular surface.2 We are able to appreciate the variety of ocular conditions that can produce or aggravate dry eye, and with this appreciation we can develop a practical strategy for its management.3 This discussion proposes some therapeutic principles for the treatment of dry eye, and summarizes the things we presently do to treat dry eye, and then identifies new strategies that should soon be available for dry eye therapy. An important caveat before any treatment is employed, however, is that the patient must be fully educated as to the nature and characteristics of his/her dry eye disorder in order to assure understanding of the goals of therapy and to stimulate compliance with the recommended treatment.