Blepharitis is a medical condition relating to the inflammation of eyelids and eyelashes. It is characterized by white flaky skin near the eyelashes. Blepharitis usually causes redness of the eyes and itching and irritation of the eyelids.

Blepharitis affects people of all ages.

The disease has been categorized into two types. Anterior blepharitis affects the front of the eyelids near the eyelashes. The causes are scalp dandruff and infection by the Staphylococcus bacteria. Posterior blepharitis affects the back of the eyelids, the part that makes contact with the eyes. This is caused by the oil glands present in this region.

Like dandruff, there is no cure for blepharitis. But it can be controlled by maintaining regular eyelid hygiene. Application of a damp warm cloth on the eyes followed by a scrubbing with baby shampoo helps remove the dandruff temporarily. Antibiotic drops or ointments are prescribed in severe cases.

Staphylococcal blepharitis

Staphlycoccal blepharitis is the most common type of external eye inflammation. As with dandruff, it is usually asymptomatic until the disease progresses. As it progresses, the sufferer begins to notice a foreign body sensation, mattering of the lashes, and burning. Usually, the primary care physician will prescribe topical antibiotics for staphylococcal blepharitis.

Seborrheic blepharitis

Seborrheic blepharitis is usually part of a larger constellation, and is associated with seborrhea of the scalp, lashes, eyebrows, and ears. Signs include greasy, dandruff-like scales on the eyelashes, but no skin ulcerations. Because seborrheic blepharitis is part of a constellation, treatment must be aimed at seborrhea in general.

See also

• List of skin diseases
• List of eye diseases

External links

• Blepharitis description from the American Optometric Association
• eMedicine Health: Eyelid Inflammation (Blepharitis)