Effectiveness of hyaluronic acid and arnica extract ophthalmic solution in reducing dry eye symptoms in pediatric population

AIM: to assess the effectiveness of a new combination of topical solution with Hyaluronic Acid 0.2% and arnica extract 0.1% in reducing dry eye symptoms in a population of pediatric patients. METHODS: 52 pediatric patients (aged 9 to 14 years) with signs and symptoms of dry eyes and allergic conjunctivitis were included in the study. Twenty-six patients were assigned to the Hyaluronic Acid 0.2%/ Arnica extract 0.1% group (Study Group) while 26 patients to the Hyaluronic Acid 0.2% group (Control Group). Clinical signs and symptoms were assessed at baseline and at week 4. The assessment plan included: slit-lamp examination, tear film break up time (TBUT), Schirmer's test and conjunctival hyperemia score. Ocular surface disease index (OSDI) score was used to evaluate subjective symptoms of dry eye disease. RESULTS: Both treatment groups showed improvements in the estimated clinical parameters after treatment. OSDI score was significantly lower in both treatment groups (Study group p = 0.02; Control group p = 0.04) at the end of the follow up period. Improvements in TBUT, Schirmer's test results and conjunctival hyperemia were statistically significant only in the Study group (p = 0.021; p = 0.03; p < 0.01 respectively). CONCLUSIONS: Preliminary findings suggest that combined topical Hyaluronic Acid 0.2% and arnica extract 0.1% can be effective in reducing symptoms and signs of dry eye disease in children.