Recent developments of dry eye in children

Purpose Dry eye syndrome in children is a rare disease sometimes difficult to diagnose. The research of the etiology can contribute to adjust the treatment. Methods Two features of dry eye syndrome in children can be distinguished. Dry eye integrated in general disease with evidence of diagnosis and etiology and asymptomatic dry eye which needs a careful check up to recognize the primary etiology. Keratitis sicca usually does not lead to children complaint and simple signs as rubbing or blinking are often observed. Clinical and practical cases are described. Results Review of literature confirms common conditions with adult dry eye but also the specificity of the pediatric dry eye. Dry eye in children is also commonly an inflammatory condition of the ocular surface. New treatment with their indications are listed including tear‐like topical therapies and anti‐inflammatory or immunosuppressive drugs for ocular surface with specificities in children. Conclusion Dry eye syndrome in children must be recognized and diagnosed. In addition to classical tear‐like treatment, specific therapy should be adapted to the etiology.