This is an inflammation of the eyelid which affects the eyelids or tear production. It commonly occurs when the tiny oil glands of the inner eyelid become inflamed. It is not contagious and does not cause any lasting damage to the eyes. Meanwhile, it is tough to treat.

The two types of blepharitis are anterior blepharitis and posterior blepharitis. This condition can be caused by an allergic reaction to a mite which resides in the eyelash or eyebrow (Demodex folliculorum), bacterial infection with Staphylococcus aureus or Streptococcus epidermidis and excessive oil production by the glands of the eyelids.

Some risk factors of blepharitis are eyelashes allergies, oily skin and dandruff.

Symptoms of blepharitis are watery eyes, scaling of the epidermis of the eyes, abscesses, photophobia, dry eyes, more frequent blinking, red swollen eyelids, itchy eyelids and burning eyelids. The complications include excess tearing, damage to the cornea, chronic red eyes, chalazion and stye.

Laboratory diagnosis of blepharitis is by microscopic examination of the skin swab from areas around the eyes. Blepharitis can be treated by keeping the eyelids clean and free of crusts, applying warm compresses, taking medications, management of underlying conditions, treatment of dandruff and control of mites.

Visit MedBioTechLab for all microscopic examinations to detect eye conditions.

References:

www.mayoclinic.org

www.nei.nih.gov