Meibomian Gland Dysfunction May Be At the Root of Dry Eye Syndrome

An international team of scientists have published a report that could change the way we look at dry eye syndrome.

There is news from the International Workshop on Meibomian Gland Dysfunction, which has spent two years formulating an evidence-based evaluation of meibomian gland structure and function in health and disease.  According to report authors, MGD is an extremely important condition, conceivably underestimated, and very likely the most frequent cause of dry eye disease.  More than 50 experts from around the globe worked together, mostly using technology to connect across great distances to develop a contemporary understanding of the definition and classification of MGD.

According to the report, researchers now understand that the meibomian gland is a key component in the etiology of dry eye and contributes to the evaporative status of the tear film.

“MGD may well be the leading cause of dry eye disease throughout the world. Although this condition influences the health and well being of millions of people, there has not previously been a global consensus on the definition, classification, diagnosis or therapy of MGD,” explained Dr. David A. Sullivan, PhD, TFOS President.