Efficacy of different dry eye treatments with artificial tears or ocular lubricants: a systematic review

The aim of this research was to objectively review the outcome of clinical studies where rose bengal stain (RB) has been used as an outcome measure to assess the efficacy of artificial tears (AT) in patients with dry eye. From peer-reviewed articles published between 1947 and 2008, information was sought on dry eye status, as reported using a grading scheme, after use of RB as a diagnostic test, before and after use of a specific regimen of artificial tears or ocular lubricants for approximately 30 days. Mean baseline scores and post-treatment scores were calculated, along with the net change and the percentage change in the RB scores.