- Dr. Niravkumar Mehta, (M.optom, Phd, FAAO, FOVDR, FIACLE)1*, Ms. Stuti Purani (B.Optom)2, Ms. Kaksha Desai (M.optom)3
- 1Principal, Hari Jyot College of Optometry, Navsari, Gujarat, India
- ISR Journal of Applied Medical Science (ISRJAMS); Page: 119-123
Abstract: Background: Dry eye disease (DED) is a common ocular condition characterized by tear film instability and Meibomian gland dysfunction (MGD), leading to symptoms such as dryness, burning, grittiness, and fluctuating vision. Conventional treatments provide symptomatic relief, but patients with MGD-related dry eye may require additional therapeutic options. Intense Pulsed Light (IPL) therapy has emerged as a promising modality to improve gland function and tear film quality. Purpose: To evaluate, assess, and treat ocular symptoms of dry eye, with a focus on the effectiveness of IPL therapy in patients with MGD. Methods: This prospective observational study was conducted at a tertiary eye care centre between August 2024 and June 2025. Patients presenting with dry eye symptoms were included. Subjective assessment was performed using the SPEED questionnaire, and detailed ocular history was recorded. Objective assessment included tear film breakup time (TBUT/NIBUT), tear meniscus height (TMH), lipid layer thickness (LLT), Meibomian gland dysfunction grading, and ocular surface evaluation. Treatment comprised artificial tears, lid hygiene measures, and IPL therapy. Patients undergoing IPL received three sessions at 10-day intervals and were evaluated one month later. Pre- and post-treatment data were analyzed using paired t-tests on SPSS software. Results: The study included 120 eyes (48% males, 52% females). IPL therapy was administered to 22 eyes. A statistically significant improvement was observed in NIBUT (p = 0.012) and SPEED questionnaire scores (p = 0.002) after IPL therapy. Conclusion: IPL therapy demonstrated significant functional and symptomatic improvement in patients with MGD-related dry eye. Clinical benefits were evident after the third session, with no complications observed. IPL may be considered an effective adjunctive treatment option for dry eye disease.
