autologous serum tears

Autologous serum tears (AST) are a biological product derived from a patient's own blood, processed to create eye drops that resemble natural tears. They contain essential components such as epidermal growth factor (EGF), transforming growth factor-beta (TGF-β), vitamins, and nutrients. These components support epithelial cell homeostasis, growth, and migration, and promote corneal nerve regeneration. AST are primarily used as a therapeutic alternative for severe dry eye disease (DED), especially in cases refractory to conventional treatments or secondary to systemic conditions like Sjögren's syndrome and ocular graft-versus-host disease (GvHD), as well as ocular pathologies such as neurotrophic keratitis, chemical burns, and ocular cicatricial pemphigoid. They are often considered a third-line treatment option for severe DED.

Other names

ASTautologous serum eye drops