From the Guidelines
Systane artificial tears are not effective for treating uveitis or photokeratitis, and these conditions require specific medical treatments rather than over-the-counter lubricating eye drops. According to the guidelines for managing toxicities associated with immune checkpoint inhibitors 1, uveitis is typically treated with prescription anti-inflammatory medications, such as topical corticosteroids, cycloplegic agents, and systemic corticosteroids, depending on the severity of the condition.
Key Points to Consider
- For Grade 1 uveitis, which is asymptomatic, the recommendation is to continue immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICI), refer the patient to an ophthalmologist within one week, and start lubrication drops (artificial tears) 1.
- However, for Grade 2 uveitis and above, the treatment involves holding or permanently discontinuing ICI, urgent ophthalmology referral, and coordinating treatment with an ophthalmologist, which may include topical corticosteroids, cycloplegic agents, and systemic corticosteroids 1.
Photokeratitis Treatment
Photokeratitis, on the other hand, requires treatment with prescription pain medications, antibiotic drops to prevent infection, and sometimes cycloplegic drops to reduce pain and inflammation.
Importance of Proper Medical Attention
While Systane drops may provide minor temporary comfort by lubricating the eye surface, they don't address the underlying inflammation or damage in either condition. Using only artificial tears for these conditions could delay proper treatment and potentially lead to vision complications.
Recommendations for Patients
Anyone experiencing symptoms of uveitis (eye pain, redness, light sensitivity, blurred vision) or photokeratitis (severe eye pain, tearing, light sensitivity) should seek prompt medical attention from an eye care professional for appropriate diagnosis and treatment.
From the Research
Uveitis Treatment
- Uveitis is a broad spectrum of ocular inflammation affecting the iris, ciliary body, and/or the choroid, all of which comprise the uveal tract 2.
- The treatment guidelines for uveitis experience constant changes with new agents that improve the results obtained with former drugs 3.
- Corticosteroids are the main therapy for non-infectious uveitis, and immunosuppressive drugs can be added to enhance the anti-inflammatory effects and to play the role of corticosteroid-sparing agents 3, 4.
Photokeratitis Treatment
- There is no direct evidence in the provided studies regarding the treatment of photokeratitis.
- However, it is known that photokeratitis is an inflammation of the cornea caused by ultraviolet radiation, and treatment typically involves relieving symptoms and protecting the eyes from further damage.
Systane Eye Drops
- Systane eye drops are artificial tears used to relieve dry, irritated eyes.
- There is no evidence in the provided studies to suggest that Systane eye drops are effective for treating uveitis or photokeratitis.
- The studies provided focus on the treatment of uveitis with corticosteroids, immunosuppressive drugs, and biologic agents, but do not mention the use of artificial tears like Systane 3, 2, 4, 5, 6.