Dry Eye Disease (DED)
Dry Eye Disease (DED) is one of the most prevalent — yet underdiagnosed — conditions in ophthalmology. Over 740 million people worldwide suffer from DED, with 1 in 5 people in western countries affected. Women over 40 are particularly at risk (>50%), with prevalence rising to over 90% among those in menopause.
What Is DED?
DED is a disorder of the tear film: a three-layer structure essential to healthy eye function.
| Layer | Origin | Function |
|---|---|---|
| Mucous layer | Conjunctival mucus cells | Adheres tear film to eye surface |
| Aqueous layer | Lacrimal glands | Hydration and nutrients |
| Lipid layer | Meibomian glands | Reduces evaporation |
When tear production is reduced or tears evaporate too quickly, the ocular surface becomes damaged and patients experience discomfort, blurred vision, and sensitivity.
Primary Cause: Meibomian Gland Dysfunction (MGD)
In over 86% of DED cases, the root cause is excessive tear evaporation due to Meibomian Gland Dysfunction (MGD). The Meibomian glands, located in the eyelids, secrete the lipid layer of the tear film. When these glands are blocked or dysfunctional, evaporation accelerates and dry eye follows.
Why Early Diagnosis Matters
Early, appropriate treatment leads to significantly better outcomes. DED is a chronic, progressive condition — left untreated, it can worsen over time and significantly impact quality of life. Diagnosis should always be performed by a specialist using validated clinical tests. Self-diagnosis and self-treatment with over-the-counter products should be avoided.
Treatment with Espansione Technology
Espansione Group's dual-technology approach — LM™ LLLT + OPE™ IPL — targets DED at the source:
- LM™ LLLT stimulates Meibomian gland cells via photobiomodulation, restoring normal gland function and increasing the tear lipid layer
- OPE™ IPL applies calibrated thermal impulses to the periorbital area, stimulating gland contraction and increasing lipid flow
Both technologies are CE certified (MDR) and available on the eye-light® clinical platform, as well as on meibomask® for in-clinic use and my-mask® for home maintenance.
If you suspect you have DED, speak with your ophthalmologist. Do not self-diagnose or self-treat.