Abstract
BACKGROUND: Dry eye disease (DED) represents a multifactorial condition characterized by ocular discomfort and visual disturbances. The management of DED relies heavily on accurate diagnosis to tailor effective treatments. Diagnostic approaches encompass both subjective and objective assessments. AIM: To review the diagnostic methods used in the process of dry eye disease management. METHODS: A comprehensive review of diagnostic approaches for dry eye was performed using scientific databases. Studies published within the last four years were considered. Studies were excluded if a full text was absent or the article was not written in English. Articles were assessed for relevancy, and a total of 107 studies were selected. The selection method used a systematic methodology, which guaranteed an exhaustive assessment of the diagnostic techniques reported in current literature. The study adheres to principles for systematic reviews ensuring dependability and accuracy. The studies were assessed for emphasize on both novel traditional and diagnostic methods for dry eye disease management. RESULTS: Key objective tests include tear break-up time, which evaluates tear film stability; fluorescein and lissamine green staining, which assess ocular surface damage and inflammation; tear osmolarity measurement, indicative of tear film quality; and tear volume assessment via Schirmer's test, which evaluates tear production. Advanced imaging techniques such as optical coherence tomography and meibography offer detailed anatomical insights into the ocular surface and meibomian glands, aiding in the diagnosis of underlying structural abnormalities. Moreover, emerging technologies such as matrix metalloproteinase-9 testing and inflammatory biomarkers provide additional diagnostic precision, particularly in identifying inflammatory components of DED. CONCLUSION: Integrating a combination of subjective and objective diagnostic tools allows clinicians to comprehensively assess the condition, tailor treatment plans, and monitor therapeutic efficacy. Continued advancements in diagnostic technologies promise to enhance our understanding and management of this prevalent ocular condition.