Keratolytic Compositions for Eyelid-Margin Meibomian Gland Obstruction
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current treatments for meibomian gland dysfunction (MGD) are limited to painful physical methods for removing keratinized obstructions, with no pharmacological agents available to address this issue effectively.
Innovation Solution
Topical administration of compositions containing keratolytic agents such as benzoyl peroxide, salicylic acid, or selenium disulfide in ophthalmically-acceptable carriers to the eyelid margin, allowing for the passage of keratinized obstructions and preventing further blockages in the meibomian gland.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If physical removal methods are used to remove keratinized obstruction of the meibomian gland, then the obstruction is removed, but the patient experiences significant pain
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces mechanical/physical removal methods with a chemical/pharmacological approach using keratolytic agents. The composition topically applied to the eyelid margin uses keratolytic agents to chemically break down and remove keratinized obstructions, substituting the mechanical force-based physical removal with a chemical dissolution mechanism that is less painful for the patient
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a keratolytic agent as an intermediary substance between the treatment goal and the patient. This agent acts as a mediator that facilitates obstruction removal through chemical action rather than direct mechanical intervention, reducing the harmful effect of pain while achieving the therapeutic objective
2Reliability
If physical removal methods are used for MGD treatment, then keratinized obstruction is removed, but frequent office visits are required
Solution Approach 1:
The patent enables self-service treatment by providing a topical composition that patients can apply at home to their own eyelid margins. The keratolytic agents in the composition continue to work on keratinized obstructions over time, allowing patients to maintain treatment without requiring frequent office visits for professional intervention
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses continuous partial action through repeated topical applications of the keratolytic composition. Rather than requiring single intensive office-based procedures, the treatment achieves obstruction removal through multiple smaller applications over time, reducing the need for frequent office visits while maintaining effective treatment
3Adaptability or versatility
If no pharmacological agents are available for MGD, then treatment options are limited, but physical methods cause ocular irritation
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the fundamental parameter of treatment modality from physical/mechanical to chemical/pharmacological. By formulating keratolytic agents in an ophthalmically-acceptable carrier with specific concentrations (e.g., selenium disulfide 0.1-10%, salicylic acid 0.1-10%), the treatment achieves versatility in addressing MGD while controlling ocular irritation through optimized chemical parameters and formulation
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
Provides a non-painful, pharmacological approach to treat MGD by enhancing meibum production and maintaining gland patency, reducing the need for frequent office visits and minimizing ocular irritation.
Implementation Method 1
the composition comprises a therapeutically-effective amount of at least one keratolytic agent in an ophthalmically-acceptable carrier
Data Source
AI summary
Described herein are compositions and methods for the treatment of meibomian gland dysfunction. Said compositions and methods comprise keratolytic agents, such as salicylic acid, selenium disulfide, or the like. Topical administration of said compositions to the eyelid margin or surrounding areas provides therapeutic benefit to patients suffering from meibomian gland dysfunction.