The present review is of dry eye syndrome, an entity caused by various conditions that lead to tear film abnormalities. The tear film consists of aqueous, mucin, proteins and lipids. Dry eye syndrome may be caused by local ocular disorders or systemic diseases. The symptoms include foreign body sensation, redness, photophobia and burning sensation. Clinical tests such as the Schirmer test, fluorescein staining test and Rose Bengal test are useful diagnostic tools. Laboratory tests are important assets in the diagnosis and identification of the underlying systemic disease. Biopsy of the accessory salivary gland is important in the diagnosis of Sjogren's syndrome. The management of dry eye syndrome includes replacing the deficient tear film and prolonging its residence time on the ocular surface.