StemCell Therapy

Yvette C. Terrie, BSPharm, RPh

The common ocular condition accounts for an expanding percentage of primary care medical visits.1 Although blepharitis does not typically result in blindness, left intreated, it has can cause corneal neovascularization and ulceration, keratopathy, and permanent alterations in eyelid morphology.2 The pathophysiology is thought to stem from a bacterial infection, dermatologic conditions such as rosacea and seborrheic dermatitis, or a problem with the oil glands near the base of the eyelids.3 Common clinical presentation includes burning and/or itching of the eyelid margins and/or conjunctival irritation with lacrimation, photosensitivity, or the sensation of a foreign body.2,3

Blepharitis is classified into 2 types, according to the American Optometric Association.2 Anterior blepharitis affects the outside front of the eyelid, where the eyelashes are attached. The 2 most common causes of anterior blepharitis are bacteria (Staphylococcus) and scalp dandruff.2 Posterior blepharitis affects the inner eyelid and is caused by problems with the oil (meibomian) glands in this area. Two dermatologic disorders can cause this form of blepharitis: acne rosacea, which leads to erythema, and seborrheic dermatitis.2

Self-treatable ophthalmic disorders primarily affect the eyelids, but it is important that patients always seek medical guidance to determine if an infection is present and rule out a more complicated condition or disorder.4 Pharmacists can assess if self-treatment is appropriate, direct patients to seek further medical care when warranted, and provide information about blepharitis. They can also educate patients about eyelid hygiene, including related nonprescription products, and the numerous OTC artificial tear products that may provide symptomatic relief.

PRACTICING PROPER EYELID HYGIENE Even with successful treatment, blepharitis may recur. Treatment depends on the severity and type of blepharitis, and some cases require more complex regimens. Blepharitis rarely disappears completely.5,6 Proper eyelid hygiene is the foundation of treatment and is effective in most cases.3

For a bacterial infection that does not respond to eyelid hygiene, a prescription topical antibiotic ointment may be warranted.5 A severe case may call for an oral antibiotic and a short course of a steroid.3,5 Because most blepharitis cases are chronic, patients need to follow a good hygiene regimen to prevent recurrence. Recommended measures include:2,3,5

PATIENT EDUCATION RESOURCES American Academy of Ophthalmology: aao.org/eye-health/diseases/ what-is-blepharitisMayo Clinic: mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/blepharitis/symptoms- causes/syc-20370141National Eye Institute: nei.nih.gov/learn-about-eye-health/eye-conditions- and-diseases/blepharitis

REFERENCES

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Educate Patients About the Basics of Blepharitis - Pharmacy Times

This entry was posted on May 15, 2020 at 7:46 pm and is filed under Blindness. You can follow any responses to this entry through the RSS 2.0 feed. Both comments and pings are currently closed. |