The 15th International Congress of Dacryology and Dry Eye took place in Tallinn from 17 to 19 June, bringing over 300 ophthalmologists and scientists from 30 countries to Estonia. The congress discussed the development of diagnostics and treatment of lacrimal diseases, ocular surface problems, and dry eye disease.
The main organizers of the congress were ophthalmologists Dr. Kadi Palumaa and Dr. Reili Rebane from East Tallinn Central Hospital. According to Palumaa, the treatment of dry eye and lacrimal diseases is moving towards a more precise approach.
Today, dry eye is no longer viewed as a single disease, but as a collection of conditions with many different causes and mechanisms. This means that treatment must also be increasingly personalized
Dr.Kadi Palumaa ophthalmologist
According to Palumaa, new diagnostic methods, assessment of inflammatory processes on the ocular surface, and modern surgical solutions in the treatment of lacrimal diseases attracted attention at the congress. There was also discussion on how scientific results could be incorporated into daily medical practice.
The congress began on June 17 with a live broadcast from the Eye Clinic of East Tallinn Central Hospital, during which five eye surgeries were shown in real time to the participants at the Alexela Concert Hall. In addition to Estonian doctors, specialists from the United States, Switzerland, Turkey and Japan participated in the surgical session. The session introduced various surgical treatments for lacrimal diseases.
According to Palumaa, the main value of the surgery session was educational, as participants were able to observe procedures and discuss treatment options during the surgeries.
“When doctors gain new knowledge, learn modern treatment methods, and create international contacts, this will either directly or indirectly reach patients,” said Palumaa.
Dry eye disease is estimated to affect at least 344 million people worldwide. The condition can manifest as a stinging, burning sensation, or vision fluctuations, and in more severe cases, it can affect a person’s ability to work and quality of life. The problem becomes more common in older age and may be associated with other eye diseases and general health.
In dry eye, the surface of the eye does not remain moist enough, which can cause irritation, pain, photophobia, and vision fluctuations.
Palumaa believes that holding the congress in Tallinn showed that Estonian ophthalmologists are visible in the international professional community. According to him, organizing such a congress creates opportunities for scientific collaboration, training, and joint projects.
The scientific presentations held over two days were attended by invited lecturers from different continents, as well as Estonian doctors and residents.
The congress was organized by ITK ophthalmologists in cooperation with the Conference Masters, the International Society of Dacryology and Dry Eye, and the Estonian Society of Ophthalmologists. After the Tallinn congress, Palumaa was elected president of the International Society of Dacryology and Dry Eye for a two-year term.
