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Dry eye syndrome - Overview

Alternative Names

Keratitis sicca; Xerophthalmia; Keratoconjunctivitis sicca

Definition of Dry eye syndrome:

Dry eye syndrome is when the eye is unable to maintain a healthy layer of tears to coat it.

See also:

Causes, incidence, and risk factors:

Dry eye syndrome often occurs in people who are otherwise healthy. It is more common with older age, because you produce fewer tears with age.

In rare cases, it can be associated with rheumatoid arthritis, lupus erythematosus, and other similar diseases. It may also be caused by heat (thermal) or chemical burns.

In areas of the world where malnutrition is common, vitamin A deficiency is a cause. This is rare in the United States.

  • Reviewed last on: 11/8/2010
  • Daniel E. Bustos, MD, MS, Private Practice specializing in Comprehensive Ophthalmology in Eugene, OR. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc.

References

Tu EY, Rheinstrom S. Dry eye. In: Yanoff M, Duker JS, eds. Ophthalmology. 3rd ed. St. Louis, Mo: Mosby Elsevier; 2008:chap 4.23.

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