Clinical manifestations of dry eye states.

Diagnosis of a dry eye is facilitated by prompt recognition of pertinent signs and symptoms and by utilisation of those office and laboratory procedures which help to confirm the diagnosis. Prior knowledge of those systemic diseases associated with keratoconjunctivitis sicca (KCS) alert the practitioner to a possible dry eye state. Conversely, a diagnosis of KCS may prompt recognition of a hitherto unsuspected systemic disease. In this review, I will discuss the signs and symptoms of KCS, its association with various systemic conditions, as well as the tests and procedures that contribute to its diagnosis.