Ocular Surface Disease Clinic

An Overview of Dry Eye and Meibomian Gland Disease

Chronic dry eye due to Aqueous Deficient Dry Eye (ADDE) and/or Meibomian Gland Dysfunction (MGD) can be a potentially debilitating condition ranging in symptoms of dry, gritty eyes to vision fluctuation.

ADDE stems from a deficiency in the amount of the aqueous, or ‘watery’ part of the tear film produced by the lacrimal gland.

MGD is a result of inadequate oil production due to obstruction or atrophy of the meibomian glands, which leads to evaporative dry eye. A person can have both ADDE and MGD concurrently.

ADDE and MGD have many causes, some of which are difficult to control. Potential causes include:

• Diet
• Hormones
• Blink Rate
• Cosmetics
• Surgical Procedures (Eyelids,LASIK, etc.)
• Systemic Disease
• Environment/Air Quality
• Smoking

Dr. Kaelyn Zaporski and her team at the OSD Clinic at Metro Eye are dedicated to identifying potential causes of the disease and discussing treatment options that are best for the patient and his or her lifestyle.

Treatment for ADDE and MGD is a very individualized process. Dr. Zaporski works one on one with each patient to find the treatment that best suits his or her situation. Treatment can include:

• Omega-3 supplements
• Heat therapy (at home or in office with Lipiflow)
• Lid Hygiene
• Corrective glasses
• Prescription eye drops and/or oral medication
• Environmental changes at home/work
• Discussion on diet/current medications
• Discussion on cosmetics

What to Expect at Your OSD Appointment

Dr. Kaelyn Zaporski and the staff at the OSD Clinic at Metro Eye are dedicated to helping patients find solutions in the management of ocular surface disease and its symptoms.

A typical visit usually begins with completing an Ocular Surface Disease Questionnaire, which Dr. Zaporski uses in identifying potential medical, visual, or environmental factors that may be contributing to the disease and/or symptoms. This questionnaire is typically mailed or emailed to you prior to your visit. If past medical records may add in the assessment, you may be asked to sign a records release prior to your visit as well.

Based on the reason for the consultation, diagnostic testing may be ordered by Dr. Zaporski and may include any or all of the following:

Tear Osmolarity

Tear Osmolarity is a measurement of how salty your tears are. High tear osmolarity is associated with damage to the surface of the eye. Tracking tear osmolarity can be an indicator of how therapy is working and risk for ocular surface damage.

Inflammadry

Inflammadry is a diagnostic test that is used to detect specific inflammatory mediators on the surface of the eye. Inflammation is associated with chronic irritation and can lead to permanent damage on the eye surface.

Lipiscan

Lipiscan is an instrument the doctor uses in order to obtain an infrared image of the meibomian glands. By directly viewing the glands in the eyelids, the doctor is able to assess if there are changes in the structure of the gland that would indicate improper gland function. If the gland is not functioning correctly, structural damage can occur and eventually lead to gland loss and chronic dry eye.

Dr. Zaporski will review the test results and examination findings with you, as well as any pertinent findings in the questionnaire, and will discuss a treatment plan. She welcomes questions and concerns as she feels it is important to proceed with the plan that both the doctor and patient feel are appropriate.