TFOS 2016 Abstract Book

A significant, international research effort is being directed towards understanding the composition, function and regulation of the preocular tear film. This effort is motivated by the recognition that the tear film plays a critical role in maintaining corneal and conjunctival integrity, protecting against microbial challenge and preserving visual acuity. In addition, research is stimulated by the knowledge that tear film deficiency, which occurs in countless individuals throughout the world, may lead to ocular surface desiccation, corneal ulceration, an increased incidence of infectious disease, and potentially pronounced visual disability.

To promote further progress in this field of vision research, the 8th International Conference on the Tear Film & Ocular Surface: Basic Science and Clinical Relevance was held at Le Corum in Montpellier, France, from September 7 to 10, 2016. This Conference, which was sponsored by TFOS (www.TearFilm.org), is designed to assess the current knowledge and ‘state of the art’ research on the structure and function of tear film-producing tissues, tears and the ocular surface in both health and disease. The goal of this Conference was to promote an international exchange of information that will be of value to basic scientists involved in eye research, to clinicians in the eye care community, and to pharmaceutical and diagnostic companies with an interest in tear film or ocular surface disorders. To help achieve this objective, numerous scientists, clinicians and industry representatives from 41 countries registered as participants in this Conference. This app contains the scientific program, as well as the abstracts of the oral and poster presentations, of this TFOS Conference.