Notes on Blepharitis Lecture by Dr. Michael Chua

Overview

• Speaker: Dr. Michael Chua, Board Certified Ophthalmologist
• Topic: Blepharitis – Definition, Causes, and Treatment

What is Blepharitis?

• Definition: Inflammation of the eyelids
  • Symptoms: Irritation, redness, crusting, foreign body sensation
• Associated Conditions: More common in individuals with dermatological conditions like rosacea and eczema

Types of Blepharitis

• Anterior Blepharitis:
  • Affects the front side of the eyelid, usually impacting eyelashes
• Posterior Blepharitis:
  • Involves the back side of the eyelids, affecting meibomian glands (oil glands)

Causes

• Bacterial Colonization:
  • Bacteria form biofilms on eyelids, secreting inflammatory toxins
• Immune Response Variability:
  • Some people exhibit strong immune reactions to bacteria on skin

Treatment Options

Basic Treatment

• Eyelid Hygiene:
  • Warm compress and cleaning are essential
  • Goal: Heat meibomian glands to 41°C (105°F) to liquefy oils
  • Suggested Device: Aroma Season Therapy Device

Eyelid Cleaning

• Wipes:
  • Recommended: Akusoft lid wipes, effective and non-irritating
  • Usage: Clean eyelid base with gentle motions
  • Alternative: Akusoft lid scrubs plus (leave-on formula)

Advanced Treatment

• Topical Antibiotics:
  • Erythromycin ointment to reduce bacterial levels
• Steroid-Antibiotic Ointments:
  • For acute flare-ups: Maxitrol or Turbadex
  • Caution: Long-term use can lead to increased eye pressure, cataracts

Oral Antibiotics

• Doxycycline:
  • Reduces bacteria and inflammation but can cause sun sensitivity and GI issues
• Azithromycin:
  • Fewer side effects than doxycycline, effective in treating symptoms

Special Case: Demodex Blepharitis

• Demodex Mites:
  • Commonly inhabit hair follicles, can lead to blepharitis
• Distinguishing Feature:
  • Presence of cholerets around eyelashes
• Treatment:
  • Tea tree oil wipes like Akusoft Demodex formula
  • Ivermectin Cream:
    • Effective but may cause mild eyelid irritation
  • New Eye Drop:
    • Xdemv, FDA-approved but expensive

Conclusion

• Key Treatment Strategy:
  • Begin with eyelid hygiene, escalate to antibiotics if needed
  • Adjust based on symptoms and severity

Additional Information

• Consultation:
  • Available for patients in Los Angeles, Orange County, Inland Empire
• Contact:
  • Visit Puente Hills Eye Care website or call for appointments

Note: This is a summary of the lecture content and should be used for educational purposes. Always consult a healthcare professional for medical advice.