Overview

Modifications of cell surface markers (including EMMPRIN) were observed in conjunctival epithelial cells during dry eye syndrome ; this study aims to describe the modifications of the repartition of these cell surface markers before and after initiation of a treatment.

Eligibility

Patients

Inclusion criteria

• 18 years and over
• Severe eye dryness (grade 3 or 4) as defined by the International Dry Eye Work Shop (2007): Frequent symptoms, Impregnation of fluorescein at the conjunctival level, marked fluorescein staining at the corneal level, Tear Break Up Time ≤ 5 seconds (fluorescein test) Schirmer's test score without anesthesia ≤ 5mm at 5 minutes

Exclusion criteria

• Treatment with topical ciclosporin
• Autologous serum treatment
• Wearer of scleral lenses
• Known pregnancy or breastfeeding

Control subjects:

Inclusion criteria

• 18 years and over
• Tear Break Up Time > 5 seconds (fluorescein test)

Exclusion criteria

• Wearer of contact lenses
• Functional ocular signs
• Anomalies of the ocular surface observed during examination with the slit lamp
• Fluorescein staining of the ocular surface (cornea, conjunctiva)
• Topical ocular treatment
• Known pregnancy or breastfeeding