Testosterone Replacement Therapy Shows Promise for Treating Dry Eye Disease in Men

This prospective interventional study investigated the relationship between androgen deficiency and dry eye disease in men, examining whether testosterone replacement therapy could improve ocular surface health. The research addresses a significant gap in understanding how hormonal changes affect eye comfort and tear production.

The trial enrolled 77 male participants, dividing them into two groups based on testosterone levels. The androgen deficiency group included 37 men with testosterone below 231 ng/dL, while 40 healthy controls had levels above 346 ng/dL. The intervention group received intramuscular testosterone injections every two weeks for 18 weeks.

Researchers measured comprehensive eye health parameters including tear osmolarity, tear break-up time, Schirmer tests for tear production, corneal staining, meibomian gland dysfunction scores, and tear meniscus measurements. They also assessed symptoms using standardized questionnaires like the Ocular Surface Disease Index and Aging Male Symptoms Scale.

Measurements were taken at baseline, 6 weeks, and 18 weeks to track changes throughout treatment. This timeline allowed researchers to observe both short-term and sustained effects of hormone replacement on eye surface health.

The study's completion provides valuable insights into the hormonal factors contributing to dry eye disease, which affects millions of men worldwide. Understanding this connection could lead to more targeted treatments for age-related eye discomfort, particularly as testosterone levels naturally decline with aging. The findings may inform both ophthalmologists and endocrinologists about integrated approaches to treating hormone-related eye symptoms.