Blepharitis

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Blepharitis

Eye

Blepharitis is an inflammation of the lash follicles at the eyelid margins. The cause is excess growth of bacteria that is normally present on the skin.

Eyelid inflammation

Blepharitis is usually caused by seborrheic dermatitis or a bacterial infection, and sometimes it is a combination of both. Allergies and eyelash infestation with lice may also cause blepharitis, although these causes are less common.

This condition is characterized by excess oil production in the glands near the eyelid, which creates a good environment for the growth of too much bacteria that are normally present on the skin. The eyelids appear red and irritated, with scales that cling to the base of the eyelashes.

Blepharitis may be connected to repeated styes and chalazia. Risk factors are seborrheic dermatitis of the face or scalp, rosacea, lice, and allergies.

Review Date: 09/01/2006
Reviewed By: Manju Subramanian, MD, Assistant Professor in Ophthalmology, Vitreoretinal Disease and Surgery, Boston University Eye Associates, Boston, MA. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.