Importance: Lipid layer thickness (LLT) reflects the lipid components of tear film, but is
affected by the mucocutaneous components. This study investigated the therapeutic effect of
the treatments for aqueous-deficient dry eye (ADDE) on LLT.
Objective: To investigate the effect of ADDE and its treatments on LLT measurements by tear
interferometry.
Design, Setting, and Participants: This prospective comparative interventional study included
152 eyes from 152 patients with ADDE.
Interventions: Participants were classified into four groups: control group (Group 1), 3%
diquafosol group (Group 2), punctal plug insertion group (Group 3), and combined treatment
group (Group 4).
Main Outcomes and Measures: Average LLT (LLTave) was measured using a LipiView® II tear
interferometer at baseline and one month after treatments.