Abstract:AIM: To analyze the global research status, hotspots, and trends in the field of dry eye disease(DED), aiming to provide a theoretical basis and reference for researchers and to promote further development in this field.
METHODS: A comprehensive literature search was conducted across the China National Knowledge Infrastructure(CNKI), Wanfang Medical Database, VIP Database, Web of Science Core Collection and PubMed for publications on DED up to July 10, 2025. CiteSpace 6.2.R3 and VOSviewer software were used to perform bibliometric and visualization analyses, focusing on countries/institutions, contributing authors, and high-frequency keywords.
RESULTS: Global research on DED has led to the formation of established scientific communities across various countries. The top three countries in terms of publication volume are the United States(3 956 articles), China(2 255 articles), and Japan(1 053 articles). Among research institutions worldwide, Keio University in Japan ranked first with 395 publications, followed by Harvard University(243 articles)and Harvard Medical School(242 articles)in the United States. In China, the leading institutions are Beijing Tongren Hospital, Capital Medical University(83 articles), Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, Sun Yat-sen University(67 articles), and the First Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University(63 articles). Analysis of high-frequency and emerging keywords in both Chinese and English literature identified research hotspots, including artificial intelligence, intense pulsed light(IPL)therapy, animal models of DED, pathophysiological mechanisms, and drug delivery systems.
CONCLUSION: In global DED research, clinical studies are increasingly focused on diagnostic applications of artificial intelligence and therapeutic strategies such as IPL therapy. Basic research trends emphasize pathophysiological mechanisms including oxidative stress and the development of novel pharmacological therapies based on animal models of dry eye disease.
