PRP Treatment in the Clinic
Evidence suggests platelet-rich plasma can enhance nerve growth and improve gland function in patients with dry eye and neuropathic pain.
By
Rolando Toyos, MD
November 1, 2025
Clinical Scorecard: PRP Treatment in the Clinic
At a Glance
Category Detail
Condition Dry Eye Disease (DED) and Neuropathic Pain Key Mechanisms Enhances nerve growth and improves gland function through platelet-rich plasma (PRP) injections and drops. Target Population Patients with dry eye disease and neuropathic pain. Care Setting Ophthalmology clinics.
Key Highlights
PRP is richer in anti-inflammatory mediators and growth factors than autologous serum (AS). Significant improvements in DED symptoms observed with PRP compared to AS. PRP can be microneedled into skin around meibomian and lacrimal glands to enhance function. NGF delivered via PRP shows potential for corneal nerve regeneration. PRP technology advancements improve yield and patient outcomes. Guideline-Based Recommendations
Diagnosis
Evaluate superficial corneal staining and Ocular Surface Disease Index (OSDI) scores. Management
Use PRP as therapeutic drops for DED and neuropathic pain. Monitoring & Follow-up
Monitor corneal nerve health using corneal confocal microscopy (CCM). Risks
Potential for clotting and bacterial growth if PRP is not properly stored. Patient & Prescribing Data
Patients with severe dry eye disease and associated neuropathic pain.
PRP shows superior efficacy in improving symptoms and nerve growth compared to traditional treatments.
Clinical Best Practices
Utilize PRP for both drops and injections to enhance ocular surface health. Implement microneedling techniques for safer gland function enhancement. Stay updated with advancements in PRP extraction technologies. References
