Frequency of Asymptomatic Meibomian Gland Dysfunction in Adults: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
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By
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Zhanar Abu
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Kairolla Rakhimov
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Maiya Taushanova
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Indira Karibayeva
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April 20, 2026
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Clinical Scorecard: Frequency of Asymptomatic Meibomian Gland Dysfunction in Adults: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
At a Glance
| Category | Detail |
|---|
| Condition | Asymptomatic Meibomian Gland Dysfunction (MGD) |
| Key Mechanisms | Structural and functional abnormalities of meibomian glands leading to tear film instability. |
| Target Population | Adults across diverse geographic regions and ethnic groups. |
| Care Setting | Epidemiological studies and clinical assessments. |
Key Highlights
- Prevalence of asymptomatic MGD is 72.86% among adults.
- High heterogeneity in prevalence estimates across studies (I2 = 98.8%).
- Asymptomatic MGD may represent an early stage of the disease.
- Reliance on symptom-based assessments may underestimate the burden of MGD.
- Further standardized studies are needed for better understanding.
Guideline-Based Recommendations
Diagnosis
- Objective clinical signs should be used to diagnose MGD, regardless of symptoms.
Management
- Early identification of asymptomatic MGD is crucial to prevent progression to symptomatic dry eye disease.
Monitoring & Follow-up
- Regular assessments of meibomian gland function and structure are recommended.
Risks
- Untreated asymptomatic MGD may progress to symptomatic dry eye disease and chronic ocular surface inflammation.
Patient & Prescribing Data
Adults with structural or functional abnormalities of meibomian glands.
Preventive approaches may reduce progression to symptomatic conditions.
Clinical Best Practices
- Utilize objective assessments for MGD diagnosis.
- Educate patients on the potential for asymptomatic MGD.
- Implement regular monitoring for early detection of gland dysfunction.
References
