Blepharitis

Basic Information

What is Blepharitis?

Inflammation of the eyelid edges. It can involve the eyelids; eyelashes; meibomian glands (those which lubricate the lid); conjunctiva (white of the eye).

Blepharitis signs and symptoms

• Redness and greasy scales on the eyelid edges.
• Eyelashes that fall out.
• Small ulcers on the eyelid. If the lid edges ulcerate, crusts will form. If crusts are removed, lids will bleed.
• Irritation of the eye if flakes from the lid fall into the eye.
• A feeling that something is in the eye. This includes itching, burning, redness, swelling of the lid, sensitivity to bright light and tearing.
• Discharge from the lids, which glues lashes together during sleep.
• Sensitivity to light.

Causes

• Bacterial infection, usually staphylococcal, of the eyelash follicles and the meibomian glands.
• Allergic reaction (less serious inflammation only).
• Body lice (rare).

Risk increases with

• Adults over 60.
• Medical history of seborrheic dermatitis of the scalp and other body parts.
• Exposure to chemical or environmental irritants.
• Crowded or unsanitary living conditions.
• Poor nutrition.
• Immunosuppression due to illness or medication.
• Diabetes mellitus.
• Acne rosacea.

Preventive measures

• Wash hands often, and dry with clean towels.
• Avoid environments that contain dust or other irritating substances.
• Use hypoallergenic eye makeup.
• Control seborrhea of the scalp with medicated shampoos.

Expected outcomes

Blepharitis can be stubbornly resistant to treatment, but it is sometimes curable in 8 to 12 months. Recurrence is common.

Possible complications

• Loss of eyelashes.
• Ulceration of the cornea (covering of the eye).
• Scarred eyelids.
• Stye.
• Misdirected eyelash growth.

Blepharitis treatment

General measures

• Use warm-water soaks to reduce inflammation and hasten healing. Apply soaks for 20 minutes, then rest at least 1 hour. Repeat as often as needed.
• Remove scales from the lids each day.
• Don't wear eye makeup until inflammation subsides.
• Discontinue soft contact lenses until condition cleared.

Medications

• Antibiotic ointment or eye drops, which may contain cortisone drugs, may be prescribed.
• Oral medication may be prescribed in severe cases, such as with acne rosacea.

Prograf (Tacrolimus)

Activity

No restrictions.

Diet

No special diet.

Last updated 15 June 2015