The Dry Eye Clinic at Clarity Eye Care
What are Autologous Serum Tears?
Autologous serum tears (often called serum tears or Vital Tears) are preservative free eye drops that are custom made for each patient based on their individual blood chemistry. Vital Tears are created and designed to mimic each patient’s natural tears and contain growth factors, proteins, and vitamins derived from your own blood serum. Unlike traditional artificial tears that are used to add lubrication, Vital tears help regenerate the cornea and conjunctiva. They also provide goblet cell support, corneal nerve regeneration and inflammation control.
Serum tears are most often indicated for patients with moderate to severe ocular surface disease, in particular those who have tried and failed with other treatments. Patients with conditions such as neurotrophic keratitis, Sjogren’s syndrome, persistent epithelial defects and recurrent corneal erosions often find serum tears especially beneficial.
Since Vital Tears are made from your own blood and microfiltered to remove pathogens, there are no major side effects
Some patients notice improvement in symptoms such as burning and irritation within two weeks as cornea and surface cells begin to repair.
With daily use, most people reach peak improvement after six to eight weeks when ocular inflammation and nerve recovery combine.
How are Vital Tears Made?
Blood Collection
A small sample of the patient’s blood is drawn by a trained phlebotomist, either at a partnering lab or via a mobile phlebotomy service.
Serum Separation
The blood is allowed to clot, then centrifuged to isolate the serum - the clear, nutrient - rich liquid portion.
Dilution
The serum is diluted with balanced salt solution according to the concentration ordered by our eye care providers. A typical serum concentration ranges from 20 to 100 percent
Package and Delivery
The final product is dispensed into sterile dropper bottles and shipped directly to the patient within 48 hours of the blood draw. Because serum tears are made from biological material and are preservative free, they must be kept cold. Vital Tears will be shipped cold or frozen, and each vial will last one week. The bottle of tears currently being used should be stored in the refrigerator and the remaining vials should be stored upright in the freezer.
Have a Question?
Our eye care staff is happy to assist you with any questions or concerns you may have. We also accept electronic appointment requests. Simply let us know your availability and we will do our best to accommodate your requests.