Stress to the ocular surface can cause an overexpression of inflammatory mediators, like ICAM-1. ICAM-1 binds to LFA-1, a cell surface protein found on T cells5,6
This interaction can lead to activation of T cells at multiple sites, migration of T cells to the ocular surface, and release of proinflammatory cytokines, triggering a vicious cycle of inflammation, which can lead to chronic tissue damage3,5,6
Up to 65% of patients with dry eye disease may have clinically significant ocular surface inflammation7
Patients living with dry eye disease may experience the following:
Symptoms such as ocular discomfort and signs such as conjunctival hyperemia, corneal and conjunctival staining, tear hyperosmolarity, and a positive MMP-9 test may indicate the presence of ocular surface inflammation3,9
Symptoms and risk factors of dry eye disease are not limited to those listed above.
The following scenarios include 3 hypothetical patients living with dry eye inflammation.
See how they may compare to patients in your practice
Avid artist and piano player
MEET SUZY • Age 58
Retired nature lover
MEET jules • Age 71
MEET BRIAN
Age 64CURRENT SYMPTOMS
Carpenter and bookworm
MEET BRIAN • Age 64
Not actual patients.
Avid artist and piano player
Previously diagnosed with dry eye disease and signs of inflammation
Hashimoto’s disease, postmenopausal
Three brands of artificial tears cycled continuously
Not an actual patient.
AGE 58
Retired nature lover
Dry eye disease with clinically significant ocular surface inflammation
Postmenopausal, systemic hypertension, ocular hypertension
Brimonidine, warm compresses, artificial tears
Not an actual patient.
AGE 71
Carpenter and bookworm
Dry eye disease due to Sjögren’s syndrome with a high risk of inflammation
Primary Sjögren’s syndrome
Topical cyclosporine 0.05% cycled multiple times, artificial tears
Not an actual patient.
AGE 64
Xiidra addresses T cells differently to defend against dry eye inflammation6
ICAM-1, intercellular adhesion molecule 1; LFA-1, lymphocyte function-associated antigen 1; MMP-9, matrix metalloproteinase-9.
The exact mechanism of action of Xiidra in dry eye disease is not known.
References
Xiidra® (lifitegrast ophthalmic solution) 5% is indicated for the treatment of signs and symptoms of dry eye disease (DED).