Blepharitis is an epidemic – defined as inflammation affecting the eyelashes, eyelids and the ocular surface, it is widely recognised as one of the most common ocular conditions. Reports from US primary eye care providers show that blepharitis is commonly seen in clinical practice, in over 40% of patients¹, and similar prevalence rates are observed in New Zealand². It presents with symptoms such as lid margin itching and irritation, foreign-body sensation, ocular surface discomfort, epiphora, conjunctival hyperemia and visual symptoms such as light sensitivity and blurred vision when it affects the cornea. While it is a multifactorial disease, infection and inflammation are considered primary contributors, with increased bacterial load and parasitic infection often at play. Despite its prevalence, successful treatment of blepharitis can often be difficult. The current treatment typically consists of antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory eye drops, eye ointments and even orally prescribed medication.
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