What's new in dry eye research today? | Sep 28, 2026

【Title】Epidemiology and manifestations of Sjögren's disease

【Journal】Z Rheumatol

【Authors】Martin Aringer; Anne-Kathrin Tausche

【Summary】This review summarizes the epidemiology and clinical manifestations of Sjögren's disease (SjD), a systemic autoimmune disorder characterized by exocrine gland inflammation and subsequent dryness. In Germany, the estimated prevalence is approximately 7 per 10,000, slightly exceeding that of systemic lupus erythematosus, with women affected about ten times more frequently than men. SjD is associated with pronounced B-cell activation, increased lymphoma risk, fatigue, arthralgia, and clinically relevant internal organ involvement in some patients. Current classification criteria emphasize anti-Ro/SS-A antibodies or salivary gland biopsy, complemented by objective evidence of dryness. Given established characteristic ultrasonographic findings, the authors suggest that sonographic parameters could potentially complement current classification approaches.

【Title】What is the incidence and clinical significance of dry eye disease in patients treated with immune checkpoint inhibitors? A systematic review and meta-analysis of ocular immune-related adverse events

【Journal】Acta Ophthalmol

【Authors】Kai-Yang Chen; Hoi-Chun Chan; Chi-Ming Chan

【Summary】This systematic review and meta-analysis evaluated the incidence and clinical characteristics of dry eye disease (DED) in adults treated with immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs). Thirteen studies were included, and the pooled incidence of DED was 2% (95% CI, 1%–3%), although reported rates varied widely (0.2%–65%) because of differences in surveillance and diagnostic approaches. Numerically higher rates were observed with combination CTLA-4 plus PD-1 therapy and in some lung cancer cohorts, but these subgroup estimates were heterogeneous and should be interpreted cautiously. Mechanistic findings supported immune-mediated lacrimal dysfunction, with abnormal Schirmer results in 62% of symptomatic cases. Most events were mild and managed topically, while a minority required systemic immunomodulation.