Blepharitis

Read more about this disease, some with Classification – Types – Signs and symptoms – Genetics – Pathophysiology – Diagnosis – Screening – Prevention – Treatment and management – Cures and much more, some including pictures and video when available.

Blepharitis (pronounced /bl?f?r’a?t?s/) is an ocular disease characterized by inflammation of the eyelid margins. Blepharitis may cause redness of the eyes, itching and irritation of the eyelids in one or both eyes. Its appearance is often confused with conjunctivitis and due to its recurring nature it is the most common cause of “recurrent conjunctivitis” in older people. It is also often mistaken for “dry eye” by patients due to the gritty sensation that may occur, however lubricating drops do little to improve the condition.

There are two types of blepharitis:

Seborrheic blepharitis, the most common type of blepharitis,[citation needed] is usually one part of the spectrum of seborrheic dermatitis which involves the scalp, lashes, eyebrows, nasolabial folds and ears. Treatment is best accomplished by a dermatologist.

Staphlycoccal blepharitis is caused by infection of the anterior portion of the eyelid by Staphylococcal bacteria. As the infection progresses, the sufferer may begin to notice a foreign body sensation, matting of the lashes, and burning. Usually, the primary care physician will prescribe topical antibiotics for staphylococcal blepharitis. Unfortunately this is not an effective treatment.[citation needed] The condition can sometimes lead to a chalazion or a stye.[1]

The most common type of blepharitis is often found in people with a Rosacea skin type.[citation needed] The oil glands in the lid of rosacea sufferers secrete a modified oil which leads to inflammation at the gland openings which are found at the edge of the lid.[citation needed]

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