By Ersin Sencan, student of the Master in Clinical Optometry and Vision Therapy

Abstract

This literature review aims to provide current estimates of DED prevalence among the adult population and their treatment options for optometrists in developed countries, specifically in the Netherlands. It examines which treatment options are currently mostly used, which ones have the highest patient compliance and comfort, and which ones yield the best results.
A systemic and thorough literature research has been conducted using Pubmed, Cochrane Library and Google Scholar. After applying specific criteria, a total of 43 articles were studied, of which 19 were included in this study. The aim was to focus on the latest treatment options and data. The main reason for exclusion was that many studies were published before 2015. Secondly, a survey is done in our practice on 41 patients (n=81 eyes) and we contacted 19 colleague optometrists.
This review confirmed that there is sufficient data supporting the efficacy of dry eye disease treatments. Although eyedrop therapy is an effective treatment, it shows lower patient compliance. Only 10.2% of a patient group of 2645 used the drops as prescribed. Punctum plug therapy requires no patient compliance, as it involves a one-time insertion with no need for revisits. It resulted in an 80% improvement in quality of life. In comparison, the IPL group showed a 100% improvement, but the higher costs and need for multiple revisits were noted as disadvantages.
As optometrists, we have more treatment options for DED than ever before, including new devices. The most commonly used options are mentioned in this review. Artificial tears, punctum plugs and IPL technology each have their pros and cons. In the Netherlands, some treatments are preferred over others.

Keywords: dry eyes in adults, punctum plugs, IPL laser, treatment of dry eyes, punctal occlusion and developed countries.

Download the full Research Work: Sencan, E. (2025). Dry eye disease in adults and their treatment options: Are punctum plugs the best option in the Netherlands? SAERA