blepharitis /blef′ərī″tis/ [Gk, blepharon + itis] , an inflammatory condition of the lash follicles and meibomian glands of the eyelids, characterized by swelling, redness, and crusts of dried mucus on the lids. Ulcerative blepharitis is caused by bacterial infection. Nonulcerative blepharitis may be caused by psoriasis, seborrhea, or an allergic response. ▪ OBSERVATIONS: Individuals report a foreign-body sensation of the eye. There are red eyelid margins, flaking and scaling around lashes, an itching and burning sensation, and loss of lashes. Light sensitivity, conjunctivitis, and possible corneal inflammation may also occur. In ulcerative blepharitis there are crusts on the eyelids, which bleed when removed. Small pustules develop in lash follicles, and eyelids become “glued” together by dried drainage during sleep. Lid margins thicken over time with misdirected growth and/or loss of eyelashes. Corneal pannus, ulcerative keratitis, and lid ectropion can occur in severe cases. Diagnosis is made by clinical examination, and lab tests may be run to isolate the causative agent. Individuals with chronic diseases, such as diabetes, gout, anemia, and rosacea, or a history of sties, chalazia, or chronic infections of the mouth and/or throat are at greater risk. ▪ INTERVENTIONS: Blepharitis is stubborn to treat and is often resistant to various therapies. Topical antiinfective ointments and drops are used, but the mainstay of treatment is the use of eyelid scrubs. Resistant cases may require oral antibiotic treatment.
