Safety and Efficacy of Autologous Plasma Rich in Growth Factors Eye Drops for the Treatment of Evaporative Dry Eye

Purpose: To provide preliminary information about the safety and efficacy of plasma rich in growth factors (PRGF) in the treatment of evaporative dry eye (EDE) and analyze the influence of certain variables on treatment outcomes. Methods: This retrospective study included patients with EDE treated between January 2011 and December 2013. Outcome measures including signs and symptoms of the disease were evaluated before and after treatment. The influence of some of the patient's clinical variables on results was assessed. Safety assessment was also performed. Results: Eighty-three patients with a total of 156 eyes were evaluated. Statistically significant reductions in the Ocular Surface Disease Index (38.2%), best-corrected visual acuity (27.4%), Visual Analogue Scale scores for frequency (32%) and severity (34%), and a significant improvement in the Schirmer test scores (177.5%) were observed (p < 0.05). The results were stratified according to the identified potential effect modifiers. Only four adverse events were reported. All of them were mild and resolved within a few days. Conclusions: Results suggest that PRGF eye drops could be a safe and effective treatment in reducing EDE signs and symptoms. When treating patients, the possible influence of some clinical variables must be taken into account. (C) 2016 S. Karger AG, Basel