[Use of autologous serum in ophthalmic practice].

OBJECTIVE To establish a protocol for the use of autologous serum in the ophthalmic practice. METHODS Personal experience and a literature review. RESULTS The use of autologous serum, in eye drop form, has been reported as a new treatment for several ocular surfaces diseases. These products have biomechanical and biochemical properties similar to normal tears. They contain components such as fibronectin, vitamin A and growth factors that have an epitheliotrophic effect on the ocular surface epithelial cells. CONCLUSIONS The clinical studies performed showed a variable efficacy, with the preparative process and use of the autologous serum eye drops varying considerably between different studies.