Blepharitis

Question 1

What is blepharitis?

Answer 1

Blepharitis is inflammation of the eyelids, causing redness, swelling, irritation, itching, crusting, and burning sensations along the eyelid margins. It commonly affects both eyes and can be chronic

Question 2

What are the types of blepharitis?

Answer 2

• Anterior blepharitis affects the front edge of the eyelid at the lash line, often caused by bacterial infection or seborrheic dermatitis.
• Posterior blepharitis affects the inner edge of the eyelid and is commonly associated with dysfunction of the meibomian glands

Question 3

What causes blepharitis?

Answer 3

Causes include bacterial infection (Staphylococcus aureus), seborrheic dermatitis, rosacea, meibomian gland dysfunction, allergies, and mite infestation

Question 4

How is blepharitis managed according to NICE?

Answer 4

The primary treatment is good eyelid hygiene
- warm compresses
- eyelid massage
- regular cleaning of the eyelid margins to remove crusts and unblock glands.

This routine should be maintained even after symptoms resolve to prevent recurrence

Question 5

When are topical antibiotics or other medications indicated?

Answer 5

• Topical antibiotics (chlpramphenicol oinment) may be prescribed if there is a secondary bacterial infection or flare-up, often combined with corticosteroids for short-term use in severe cases.
• Oral doxycycline or azithromycin may be used for posterior blepharitis related to rosacea