Chronic inflammation of the eyelids, usually at the base of the eyelashes.
It is classified as anterior blepharitis when the base of the eyelashes is inflamed, and posterior blepharitis when the inner side of the eyelid, where the meibomian glands are located, is inflamed. Anterior blepharitis is caused by staph infection or inflammation of the sebaceous glands. Posterior blepharitis is associated with inflammation of the meibomian glands, usually caused by seborrhoeic dermatitis or rosacea.
It presents with red and irritated eyelids, with dandruff at the base of the eyelashes. It can also be accompanied by itching, stinging and eyelid inflammation. Some cases can cause red eyes or changes at the base of the eyelashes.
It is diagnosed clinically by interview and physical examination.
It is a chronic condition with no definitive cure, so it is very important to maintain good eyelid hygiene to avoid relapses. Applying local heat with a warm cloth will help to liquefy the secretions of the meibomian glands and increase their circulation. Similarly, gentle massage of the eyelid will help liquefy the secretions of the glands and increase their circulation. If an infection is present, it can be treated with topical or oral antibiotics.
- Roni M Shtein. Blepharitis. MDUpToDate, Marzo 2016
- Shine WE. Polar lipids in human meibomian gland secretions. Curr Eye Res 2003; 26:89.
- Shine WE. Meibomianitis: polar lipid abnormalities. Cornea 2004; 23:781.
- McCulley JP. The lipid layer of tears: dependent on meibomian gland function. Exp Eye Res 2004; 78:361.
- Jonathan C. Horton. Trastornos de los ojos. Harrison. Principios de Medicina Interna, 19e. Capítulo 39
