Scleral Lenses for Dry Eye

Scleral Contact Lens Reduction of Cytokines in Dry Eye Patients

Investigator Initiated

  • Principal Investigator: Curtis Brandt, PhD
  • Clinical Collaborator: Michele Martin, OD
  • Study Coordinator: Kris Dietzman

Study objective:

To use scleral contact lenses for increased comfort and vision in patients with dry eye disease by decreasing the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines.

Study design:

The study will include three clinic visits over a 3-month period. Visits will consist of an Ocular Surface Disease Index (OSDI) questionnaire, tear film collection, and slit lamp photography in addition to regular clinical activities.

Inclusion criteria:

  • Male or female patients ≥ 18 years of age with confirmed diagnosis of dry eye
  • Ability to discontinue topical anti-inflammatory medications for 10 days prior to Visit 1
  • Systemically stable with GVHD under control as determined by referring physician or transplant medicine team
  • Scleral contact lenses prescribed by treating eye doctor as standard-of-care for dry eye

Exclusion criteria:

  • Any active ocular disease other than dry eye
  • Contact lens wear
  • Any ocular surgery in the last 6 months
  • Any topical medicine other than lubricants or tears
  • Systemic anti-inflammatory therapies for at least 3 months before initial sample collection
  • Relapse of malignancy
  • Active infection in any part of the body

Contact Kris Dietzman with questions, 608-263-9035