Eyelid Hygiene Research Articles

Vectored Thermal Pulsation as a Treatment for Meibomian Gland Dysfunction: A Review Spanning 15 Years.

The LipiFlow Thermal Pulsation System received its first marketing clearance for the treatment of meibomian gland dysfunction (MGD) 13years ago. Since then, the evidence evaluating the effectiveness and safety of LipiFlow as a treatment for MGD has grown significantly. The objective of this comprehensive review was to summarize all clinical reports evaluating the effectiveness and safety of LipiFlow over the past 15years. The literature was systematically reviewed, and 55 unique articles had subjective (patient-reported outcomes) and objective (meibomian gland function, tear production, and ocular staining) outcomes for extraction. Data were collected from 2101patients and 3521 eyes treated with LipiFlow. Of these, effectiveness was evaluated in 2041patients and 3401 eyes, and safety was evaluated in 1448 patients and 2443 eyes. Taken together, the studies demonstrate that a single 12-min treatment with LipiFlow safely improves signs and symptoms of MGD and associated evaporative dry eye disease (DED), and the benefits persist up to 3years in some cases. The findings are corroborated by multiple meta-analyses and consensus guidelines. While some studies showed that daily eyelid hygiene, warm compress, and/or massage had a similar benefit to a single LipiFlow, these treatments were limited by inconvenience, discomfort, and non-compliance. The majority of studies evaluating safety reported no discomfort or pain associated with LipiFlow treatment, which supports the patient acceptability of LipiFlow therapy. All adverse events (AEs) related to LipiFlow were transient, non-vision-threatening, and did not require treatment. No studies reported serious AEs. The data obtained from 55 studies conducted globally overwhelmingly show that LipiFlow is effective and safe for the treatment of MGD and associated evaporative DED. The conclusions are supported by the diversity of the patient populations (geography, race, disease severity, and diagnosis), the large population treated with LipiFlow, the meta-analyses, and that this review analyzed all published clinical studies to date.

Effectiveness and safety of demodecosis blepharitis therapy under dry eye conditions

Purpose: to evaluate the effectiveness and safety of complex therapy in patients with demodex blepharitis and dry eye. Methods. 25 patients with mixed demodex blepharitis and dry eye (50 eyes; 10 men, 15 women; 61.9 ± 5.6 years) were examined before and after treatment with 0.5 % levofloxacin instillation (5 times a day, 5 days); sulfur and metronidazole gel applications (Blefarogel-forte) as part of therapeutic eyelid hygiene (Blepharogel-cleansing, Blepharolotion; starting from day 6, 2 times a day, 45 days); 0.24 % sodium hyaluronate instillation (3 times a day). Therapy effectiveness criteria were as follows: D. folliculorum mite population reduction; positive dynamics of blepharitis objective signs and meibomian gland dysfunction severity (MGD-S, points). Therapy safety criteria included the absence of negative dynamics of OSDI, tear film breakup time (TBUT, s), inferior tear meniscus height (ITMH, µm) and xerosis index (XI, points). Results. As a result of the therapy, statistically significant changes were noted, including mite population reduction (from 9.23 ± 0.81 to 3.54 ± 0.80 imagos); eyelid margins edema intensity decrease (from 3.18 ± 0.39 to 1.30 ± 0.45 points) and hyperemia decrease (from 2.90 ± 0.29 to 0.9 ± 0.3 points); MGD-S decrease (from 2.1 ± 0.3 to 0.95 ± 0.21 points); OSDI decrease (from 43.23 ± 4.70 to 25.10 ± 2.65 points); TBUT increase (from 4.05 ± 0.50 to 5.55 ± 0.50 s); XI decrease (from 5.36 ± 0.49 to 4.04 ± 0.60 points). Conclusion. The treatment of demodex blepharitis and dry eye treatment, including sulfur and metronidazole gel applications, therapeutic eyelid hygiene and 0.5 % levofloxacin and 0.24 % sodium hyaluronate instillation demonstrated a high efficiency and a good safety profile.

Long-term, Low-Dose Oral Azithromycin Treatment for Chronic Severe Bilateral Blepharokeratoconjunctivitis in Pediatric Patients.

To evaluate the efficacy and safety of oral azithromycin treatment combined with topical antibiotic and anti-inflammatory agents in pediatric patients with chronic severe bilateral blepharokeratoconjunctivitis. Patients younger than 14 years with chronic and severe bilateral blepharokeratoconjunctivitis were reviewed retrospectively. Consecutive patients receiving oral azithromycin treatment were included. All patients received oral azithromycin (5 mg/kg/single dose daily) for at least 4 weeks combined with topical antibiotic and anti-inflammatory agents. Before and after the treatment, clinical symptoms were noted, and corneal and conjunctival fluorescein staining and corneal neovascularization were graded. Meibomian gland secretion and meibomian gland plugging were also assessed. All patients completed at least 3 months of follow-up after completion of the oral azithromycin treatment. Patients' clinical data at the time of diagnosis and last follow-up visit were statistically compared. Twenty-nine children (58 eyes, mean age of 6.51 years) were included. The mean time of oral azithromycin use was 5.87 weeks (range: 4 to 10 weeks). Clinical symptoms and signs and visual acuity were significantly improved after treatment. The mean fluorescein staining and corneal neovascularization grades and meibomian gland secretion and meibomian gland plugging scores also improved after treatment (P < .001). Eyelid distortion or fornix shortening was not observed. At the last follow-up visit, all patients were stable with treatment only with daily eyelid hygiene, topical cyclosporine, and artificial tears. Long-term, low-dose oral azithromycin combined with topical antibiotic and anti-inflammatory agents is an effective treatment option for pediatric patients with chronic severe bilateral blepharokeratoconjunctivitis. [J Pediatr Ophthalmol Strabismus. 20XX;X(X):XX-XX.].

A cross-sectional study of optometrists' attitudes towards dry eye disease management in Hong Kong: A web-based survey in Hong Kong

PurposeThis study aimed to explore the practices of optometrists in Hong Kong towards diagnosing and managing dry eye disease (DED). MethodsFrom September 2021 to March 2022, an online questionnaire was distributed to optometrists in Hong Kong through several professional associations. The questionnaire included questions about the importance and usefulness of various diagnostic tests, as well as inquiries about management strategies and recommended follow-up schedules for DED. Responses were compared between optometrists who were more or less proactive in continuing education to identify potential differences. ResultsThe analysis included 68 valid responses. Sixty-one of them were Part 1 optometrists that represents 5.5 % of registered Part 1 optometrists back in 2022. Assessment of clinical symptoms was the most commonly performed investigation (93 %) and considered the most important (75 %) procedure in DED assessments, followed by corneal staining and fluorescein tear break-up time. Traditional diagnostic tests were preferred over newer methods, such as osmolarity, which were not yet commonly used. Unpreserved lubricants (90 %) and lid hygiene (63 %) were the primary treatments recommended for mild DED. Optometrists who had more experience and frequent participation in continuing education were more confident in diagnosing and managing DED, and more likely to recommend omega-3 supplements for moderate DED. ConclusionThe diagnostic and management strategies of optometrists in Hong Kong were generally consistent with the recommendations of the Dry Eye Workshop II report. However, standardized DED questionnaires and newer diagnostic tools were not commonly used. Evidence-based optometric care for dry eye management should be encouraged in Hong Kong optometric practice.

Salt Water Induced Blepharitis: A Lifestyle-Related Case from a Coast of Java

Introduction: Blepharitis is a disease that is often countered. This condition could occur in all ages, sexes, and ethnic groups. Several factors can be the cause of blepharitis. However, blepharitis cases caused by saltwater have never been reported. Case Presentation: There was a case of a 62-year-old woman who came to the hospital complaining of a foreign body sensation in both eyes. Through examination, it was found that the eyelashes looked dirty with brownish-yellow deposits. Management by doing eyelid hygiene, giving ofloxacin eye drops, NaCl / KCl eye drops, and hygiene education had been done. Conclusions: Blepharitis is a frequently encountered case. However, blepharitis caused by salt water has not been reported. Through this case, it could be learned that the patient's lifestyle and geographical location of the patient's residence must be of particular concern to the clinician.

Improvement of Clinical Findings, Meibography and Tear Film Parameters in Pediatric Ocular Rosacea Patients After a Standard Treatment Protocol

ABSTRACT Purpose The objective of this study was to illustrate the changes in ocular findings, meibography, and tear break-up time (TBUT) values in pediatric patients with ocular rosacea following a standardized treatment. Methods The study included consecutive patients diagnosed with ocular rosacea, referred to a tertiary hospital between 2021 and 2023. Each patient underwent biomicroscopic examinations, non-invasive TBUT assessments, corneal fluorescein staining (evaluated using the Oxford scoring system), and meibography. The standard treatment protocol involved warm compresses, eyelid hygiene, preservative-free sodium hyaluronate eye drops (administered four times daily), topical azithromycin 1.5% (twice daily for 3 days), topical steroids (loteprednol 0.5%, four times daily for 2 weeks), and either doxycycline 100 mg/day for 14 days or oral suspension of azithromycin 10 mg/kg for 3 days followed by an additional three-day course of treatment administered 10 days later (for patients above and below 14 years of age, respectively). Results The study included 18 patients, with 10 (55.5%) being female and 8 (44.4%) being male, with a mean age of 9.7 ± 4.5 years (range: 3–18). Four patients displayed cutaneous involvement. The treatments resulted in significant improvements in the Oxford scores, reduction in corneal neovascularization, and increased TBUT (p < 0.001, p = 0.016, p < 0.001, respectively). Meibomian gland loss area also significantly improved post-treatment (27.4 ± 6.7% vs 39.2 ± 13.4%, p = 0.001). Conclusion This study demonstrated that pediatric ocular rosacea patients may exhibit improved meibomian gland function, regression of corneal neovascularization, and enhanced tear film parameters following a standardized treatment protocol that includes both topical and systemic approaches.

The Efficacy and Safety of Chinese Eye Exercise of Acupoints in Dry Eye Patients: A Randomized Controlled Trial

Introduction: Dry eye disorder (DED) is a growing global issue linked to excessive digital screen time. Chinese eye exercise of acupoint (CEA), a set of self-massages on shared Chinese acupuncture (CA), has been used to reduce visual-related ocular symptoms and possibly as an alternative treatment for DED. This study aimed to assess the efficacy and safety of CEA. Methods: A single-blind randomized controlled trial was conducted at Thammasat University Hospital in Thailand, recruiting 56 participants aged 20–60 years, equally divided into two groups: the treatment group with CEA and the control group with standard lid hygiene treatment (STD). The intervention program lasted 12 weeks. Main outcome measures: Ocular Surface Disease Index (OSDI), tear break-up time (TBUT), Schirmer-I test (SIT), corneal surface staining (CSS), and self-recorded forms for safety and adverse effects were measured at baseline, week 4, and week 12. An independent sample t test, paired t test, and repeated measures (ANOVA) were used to compare results between both groups, study visits, and primary and secondary outcome measurements, respectively. The p values <0.05 were considered statistically significant. Results: The characteristics were not statistically different between both groups at the baseline. The mean OSDI scores were significantly reduced in both groups at week 4 and week 12 compared to baseline (p value <0.05). Additionally, both CEA and STD showed significant improvement in TBUT and SIT (p value <0.05). CSS was significantly improved only in the CEA groups (p value <0.05). No significant differences were observed between the study groups, except for SIT at week 12 (p value <0.05). For the safety, there were no adverse side effects in either group. Conclusion: CEA seemed to be as effective as STD in improving the OSDI, TBUT, and SIT of DED without causing any side effects.

Eyelid margin disease (blepharitis and meibomian gland dysfunction): clinical review of evidence-based and emerging treatments.

Blepharitis is a common ophthalmic condition with multiple etiologies and no definitive, universal treatment. The treatment modalities for managing lid margin diseases vary depending on the disease's cause, location, and severity. For anterior blepharitis, management options include eyelid hygiene with warm compresses, eyelid scrubs, baby shampoo, and over-the-counter eyelid cleansers. Topical antibiotics and antibiotic-steroid combination drops/ointments for the eye and eyelid may accompany these. For posterior blepharitis/meibomian gland dysfunction (MGD), at-home warm compress or in-office administration of heat therapy/thermal pulsation treatment that aims to clear obstruction in the meibomian glands and restore meibum secretions to maintain a healthy tear film is recommended. In addition to the above treatment strategies, various other compounds to manage lid margin diseases are in the late stages of development. This review summarizes the available treatment modalities or those in the pipeline for treating blepharitis and MGD.

LipiFlow for the treatment of dry eye disease.

Meibomian gland dysfunction (MGD) is the most common underlying cause of dry eye disease (DED). MGD leads to pathological alteration of the composition or quantity of meibum, or both, which subsequently results in tear evaporation and the typical signs and symptoms associated with DED. The LipiFlow Thermal Pulsation System (LipiFlow) is a medical device used to treat MGD in office; however, it is unclear if LipiFlow can outperform other DED treatments. To evaluate the effectiveness of LipiFlow for treating DED signs and symptoms and the safety of LipiFlow compared with sham or other available treatments for MGD in adults. The Cochrane Eyes and Vision Information Specialist searched the electronic databases for randomized controlled trials. There were no restrictions on language or date of publication. We searched the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (CENTRAL, including the Cochrane Eyes and Vision Trials Register; 2022, Issue 6), MEDLINE Ovid, Embase.com, PubMed, LILACS (Latin American and Caribbean Health Science Information database), ClinicalTrials.gov, and World Health Organization International Clinical Trials Registry Platform (WHO ICTRP) electronic databases. We also examined the reference lists of identified trials, review articles, and guidelines for information about relevant trials that may not have been identified by our search strategy. We contacted investigators regarding ongoing trials. The last database search was performed on 24 October 2022. We included studies conducted in adults (over 18 years of age) with DED or MGD as defined by the primary trial investigators. We imposed no restrictions on race, ethnicity, or sex. We considered trials involving contact lens wearers if they were equally represented between groups. We applied standard Cochrane methodology. We included 13 trials that randomized a total of 1155 participants (28 to 236 participants randomized per study). Six trials were conducted in the USA, three in China, two in Thailand, one in France, and one in Italy. Eight trials were of single-center design, while four trials were of multicenter design; one trial did not report the number of participating centers. Study characteristics The study population of the included trials was 66% female (range 48% to 80%), with an age range of 19 to 86 years. LipiFlow, used as a stand-alone intervention, was compared with basic warm compresses in five studies, thermostatic device in five studies, oral intervention in one trial, and topical dry eye medications in one trial. LipiFlow was also evaluated together with eyelid hygiene product versus eyelid hygiene products alone in one trial. Findings Five trials compared LipiFlow with a basic warm compress applied for varying durations and frequencies during the trial period; only one of these trials combined a warm compress with eyelid massage. Analyzing symptom scores by different questionnaires (Ocular Surface Disease Index [OSDI] and Standard Patient Evaluation of Eye Dryness [SPEED]) yielded conflicting evidence of a difference in symptoms between LipiFlow and basic warm compresses after four weeks. There was no evidence of a difference in meibomian gland expression, meibum quality, or tear breakup time when comparing LipiFlow with basic warm compresses. Another five trials compared LipiFlow with thermostatic devices. Analysis of symptom scores at four weeks showed that thermostatic devices had reduced OSDI scores by a mean difference (MD) of 4.59 (95% confidence interval [CI] 1.23 to 7.95; I2 = 0, P = 0.007; 553 participants; very low certainty evidence) as compared with LipiFlow. When we compared LipiFlow plus eyelid hygiene with eyelid hygiene alone, there was no evidence of difference in signs or symptoms at any time point evaluated. Only one trial compared LipiFlow with a topical DED medication (lifitegrast 5%). The single-trial estimate suggested that 5% lifitegrast may increase meibomian gland expression scores compared with LipiFlow at day 42 (MD -1.21, 95% CI -2.37 to -0.05; 50 participants; low certainty evidence) by using a meibomian gland expression scale of 0 to 8. One trial compared LipiFlow with an oral intervention (doxycycline), finding that LipiFlow may result in significantly better SPEED scores than doxycycline at three months (MD -4.00, 95% CI -7.33 to -0.67; 24 participants; very low certainty evidence). No other significant differences in signs or symptoms were found between LipiFlow and doxycycline at three months. We did not find any other statistically significant differences in symptoms or signs for any other analysis performed in this review at the one- to four-week time point. Adverse events No trial reported any intervention-related, vision-threatening adverse events. LipiFlow performs similarly to other commonly used DED treatments with regard to DED signs and symptoms. The best available evidence was deemed to have a high level of bias, leading to low or very low certainty evidence. Additional research with adequate masking, a standardized testing methodology, and a sample representative of the MGD population is therefore needed before any firm conclusions can be drawn regarding comparative benefits and harms.

Uncommon Blepharitis

Blepharitis is a common chronic inflammatory condition affecting the eyelid margins; the pathophysiology of blepharitis is complex and not fully understood. The disease is anatomically divided into anterior (inflammation of eyelashes) and posterior (meibomian gland dysfunction) types. Diagnosis relies on clinical examination, revealing characteristic features like scurf, vascular changes, and meibomian gland dysfunction. The main goals of blepharitis treatment are symptom relief, recurrence prevention, and complication risk minimization. Treatment options include lid hygiene, topical and systemic antibiotics, topical corticosteroids, and omega-3 supplements. However, it is important to highlight reported cases of blepharitis as side effects of systemic therapies, particularly in the context of chemotherapy, bortezomib, cetuximab, TNFα inhibitors, and dupilumab. It is crucial to monitor patients undergoing such treatments regularly and attentively in order to promptly set up adequate supportive therapy. Of even more importance is future research on the pathophysiological mechanisms responsible for the occurrence of these ocular side effects in order to find a nosological cure for the issue.

“Mucus fishing syndrome”: Presentation of this rare clinical entity along with its therapeutic options

Aims/Purpose: The “Mucus fishing syndrome” (MFS) is a rare chronic inflammatory condition involving the ocular surface characterized by the continuous formation, of mucus filaments. The clinical presentation is variable and various underlying ocular surface pathologies including dry eye, blepharitis and allergic conjunctivitis can be associated. Chronic irritation, conjunctival hyperaemia and mucus production are present. On physical examination, patients may present an iatrogenic damage of the conjunctival epithelium due to the mechanical removal of mucus and a vicious circle is usually established which causes further conjunctival irritation and more conspicuous mucous secretion. The treatment involves the elimination of abnormal mucus production and the education of the patient to avoid contact with the ocular surface during the manoeuvres. We present a case of MFS in a young woman affected by meibomian gland dysfunction.Methods: The diagnosis was reached due to the presence of persistent mucous discharge and the characteristic rose bengal staining pattern. Initial supportive treatment (Tear substitutes and continuous irrigation of the ocular surface) prescribed elsewhere did not provide clear clinical benefits. Therefore, upon presentation a new approach was pursued adding to the ongoing treatment hydrocortisone eye drop 3 times a day, and a mucolytic agent (5% acetylcysteine eye drop) 4 times a day, together with accurate eyelid hygiene (morning and evening). Patient was also informed to avoid mechanical removal of the mucous.Results: One month after therapy the presence of mucus was reduced and the symptoms improved.Conclusions: Mucus fishing syndrome is a rare but challenging condition affecting the ocular surface. The objective of the therapy should address the pharmacological lysis of the mucous produced along with the instruction of patient not to compulsively remove the filaments in order to avoid further stress and accelerate healing.

Comparison of Efficacy of Warm Compresses Versus Loteprednol-Tobramycin Combination Therapy in the Management of Posterior Blepharitis

Objectives: to compare the efficacy of warm compresses to add-on therapy with Loteprednol-Tobramycin in patients withposterior Blepharitis.&#x0D; Study Design: Quasi-experimental study.&#x0D; Place and Duration of Study: Armed Forces Institute of Ophthalmology, Rawalpindi Pakistan, from Jun 2020 to Jul 2021.&#x0D; Methodology: Pre-diagnosed posterior blepharitis patients using warm compresses (Group-A) and add-on antibiotic steroid therapy (Group-B) were included in the study. A detailed history and ophthalmic examination evaluated tear breakup time, tear film height, intra-ocular pressure measurement, meibomian gland function, structure, and meibum appearance. In addition, the patient's symptoms were noted through the ocular surface disease index questionnaire. &#x0D; Results: The study sample had seventy-one males (56%) and 55 females (43.6%) with mean age of 35.33±12.24 years. The clinical parameters in the two groups were almost alike at enrollment. There was a significant improvement in the clinical parameters in both groups. With slightly better improvement among Group-B (using Loteprednol-Tobramycin), Only two individuals did not report an increase in IOP at six weeks of treatment in Group-B. (p=0.53).&#x0D; Conclusion: Lid hygiene with warm compresses is an effective alternative with no side effects, provided if appropriately practised; however, add-on therapies may further improve MGD and Blepharitis.Keywords: Blepharitis, Meibomian gland dysfunction, Warm compresses.

Thermal Pulsation in the Management of Meibomian Gland Dysfunction and Dry Eye: A Report by the American Academy of Ophthalmology

To review the literature to determine the efficacy and safety of thermal pulsation technologies in improving signs or symptoms of meibomian gland dysfunction (MGD) and dry eye compared with no therapy or with conventional warm compress therapy or eyelid hygiene. A literature search was conducted in the PubMed database in June 2022 and again in March 2023 to identify all studies in the English language on the use of thermal pulsation to treat MGD or dry eye. The search yielded 59 citations, and 11 articles metall of the inclusion criteria. The panel methodologist then assigned a level of evidence rating for each study; 8 studies were rated level I evidence and 3 studies were rated level II evidence. All included studies evaluated a single 12-minute session using the LipiFlow automated thermal pulsation system (TearScience, Inc, or Johnson & Johnson). Improvements were detected in subjective and objective metrics of MGD or dry eye in patients within 1 to 12 months of thermal pulsation treatment compared with nontreatment. Most of the studies (9/11) reported greater efficacy with thermal pulsation than with standard warm compress therapy and eyelid hygiene. Four of these studies showed relevant industry conflicts of interest. Two of the 4 level I studies without direct industry participation concluded that thermal pulsation treatment was not significantly different from conventional hygiene or warm compress therapy control treatments (in symptoms in one of the studies and in objective findings in the second study). No serious adverse events were reported in any of the 11 studies. According to the current literature, a single thermal pulsation session may improve subjective or objective parameters of MGD and dry eye safely. However, industry support and participation were present in 4 of the 8 level I studies. The durability beyond several months and cost efficacy remain uncertain. Because the inclusion parameters of this assessment captured only the LipiFlow system, the conclusions are limited to that product. High-quality independent studies are needed to assess the long-term benefits of this intervention. The author(s) have no proprietary or commercial interest in any materials discussed in this article.

Evaluation of possible relief of OSD-specific symptoms by PURALID® Lipogel combined with eyelid hygiene in patients suffering from anterior blepharitis and consecutive meibomian gland dysfunction

Zusammenfassung Hintergrund PURALID® Lipogel (Santen Pharmaceutical Co., Ltd., Osaka, Japan) ist ein neues Produkt zur Behandlung akuter Augenliderkrankungen wie Blepharitis. Trotz seiner mittlerweile häufigen Verwendung in der klinischen Praxis wurde nach Wissen des Autors bisher keine kontrollierte klinische Studie über die Wirksamkeit der oben genannten Therapie publiziert. Das Ziel dieser Studie war es darzustellen, ob es eine bessere symptomlindernde Wirkung mit PURALID® Lipogel bei der Augenlidhygiene im Vergleich zur alleinigen Augenlidhygiene gibt. Methoden Es liegt eine nicht verblindete, Single-center-Interventionsstudie vor, die die Augenlidhygiene mit und ohne PURALID® Lipogel zur Behandlung einer Blepharitis von MDD vergleicht. Es wurden 30 Patienten im Zuge der täglichen Sprechstunde rekrutiert. Primäre Endpunkte waren die NIK-BUT („non-invasive break-up-time“) und der OSD(„ocular surface disease“)-Index, sekundäre waren die Meibom-Drüsen-Dysfunktion und die LIPKO(„Lid-Parallel Conjunctival Folds“)-Falten. Es unterzogen sich 15 Patienten (12 Frauen) der Augenlidhygiene in Kombination mit PURALID® Lipogel, während 15 Patienten (13 Frauen) die Augenlidhygiene allein durchführten. Alle Patienten wendeten zusätzlich 3‑mal täglich die Applikation von Cationorm® Augentropfen (Santen Pharmaceutical Co., Ltd.) an. Die Behandlungsdauer erstreckte sich über 2 Monate, die Patienten wurden vor Beginn der Therapie und 2 Monate danach untersucht. Ergebnisse Vor den beiden Behandlungsmethoden bestanden keine Unterschiede in oben genannten Parametern, ebenfalls waren Geschlecht und Alter normverteilt. Nach der Behandlung verbesserten sich in beiden Gruppen die subjektiven als auch die objektiven Kriterien, die zusätzliche Anwendung von PURALID® Lipogel erbrachte allerdings keinen Vorteil. Sicherheitsparameter wie Visus und IOD blieben bei allen Patienten unauffällig. Schlussfolgerungen Die neben der Anwendung von Tränenersatzmittel und Durchführung einer Lidrandhygiene zusätzliche Verwendung von PURALID® Lipogel erbringt keine Verbesserung der symptomatischen Blepharitis.

Evaluation of microsplatter produced during mechanical in-office lid hygiene treatments

Evaluation of microsplatter produced during mechanical in-office lid hygiene treatments

Experience of therapeutic eyelid hygiene products use in patients with anophthalmia after eyeball injury

BACKGROUND: One of the purposes of ocular prosthetics is to prevent the progression of pathological processes in the eyelids and conjunctiva of the anophthalmic socket.&#x0D; AIM: The aim of this study is to assess the effectiveness of therapeutic eyelid hygiene products: Blepharowipe, Blepharogel cleansing (Geltek-Medica, Russia), used in the late postoperative and long-term rehabilitation periods, in patients with anophthalmia who lost the eyeball as a result of an injury.&#x0D; MATERIALS AND METHODS: For the study, 3 main (50 patients) and 3 corresponding control groups (50 patients) were created. The examination of patients included: complaints, medical history; biomicroscopy of the eyelids, the conjunctiva of the anophthalmic socket, and the surface of the ocular prosthesis. In the main groups, therapeutic eyelid hygiene products were used for 8 weeks in combination with regular ocular prosthesis care. In the control groups, eyelid hygiene products were not used. Assessment and analysis of the effectiveness of the products was carried out after 1, 2 and 4 weeks in group I and after 4 and 8 weeks in groups II and III based on the dynamics of patient complaints and objective examination indicators.&#x0D; RESULTS: In the main groups I and II, there was a positive dynamics: normalization of the state of the eyelids and the conjunctiva of the anophthalmic socket; increasing comfort of an ocular prosthesis wear. In the main group III and in all control groups, no significant positive dynamics was noted.&#x0D; CONCLUSIONS: The results of using the products included in the course of therapeutic hygiene of the eyelids: Blepharowipe, Blepharogel cleansing showed high efficiency, and give reason to recommend them in late postoperative and long-term rehabilitation periods in patients with anophthalmia.

Routine eyelid care for those without dermatitis

The eye is a unique structural and functional anatomic unit of the face and requires specific care and attention. Often, dermatologists are not familiar with the routine needs of the eyelid area. Despite evidence showing that lid hygiene may serve as an important supplement to therapeutic management of eyelid disorders, lid hygiene is often overlooked. Ophthalmologists and dermatologists have an important role to play in educating patients on the importance of proper eyelid hygiene and ensuring patient compliance. We review eyelid anatomy and function to better understand how these structures relate to potential disease processes. We also review current recommendations for routine eyelid care and discuss the need for further advancements in promoting eyelid health.

Meibomian gland dysfunction and blepharitis: A common and still unsolved ophthalmic problem

Blepharitis and meibomian gland dysfunction (MGD) are very common, usually underdiagnosed and underappreciated diseases. More than 50% of patients seeking ophthalmologic consultations have symptoms and signs indicating one or both entities. We summarize the key points of diagnosis and management of both diseases, comparing the work of Dry Eye Workshop II (2017) with the dry eye blepharitis syndrome unification theory. The impact of MGD/blepharitis on ocular surgery also is described. Although MGD and blepharitis seem to be uncurable, most of the time they can be successfully controlled. Different management options are available, but the key to success remains simple—routine eyelid hygiene and moisturizing with the use of preservative-free lubricants.

Dysbiosis of the ocular surface – a new risk factor for ophthalmic diseases? The role of eyelid hygiene

Quantitative and qualitative disturbances in the composition of the ocular surface microbiome can be a significant risk factor for the development of various ophthalmic disorders, including eyelid inflammation, dry eye syndrome, and allergic conjunctivitis. In this publication, we present a review of the data regarding the association between dysbiosis and these mentioned clinical conditions. Additionally, we provide recommendations for the treatment of dysbiosis, including eyelid hygiene.

Refractive surgery and dry eye.

Refractive surgery is one of the most common elective surgeries performed worldwide. The incidence of dry eye disease (DED) after corneal refractive surgery varies among different studies. Pre-existing untreated DED has been identified as a risk factor for postsurgical dry eye symptoms. On the basis of both evidence and clinical experience, some recommendations for ocular surface and DED management pre- and post-refractive surgery are described. In aqueous deficiency Dry Eye Disease, preservative-free lubricating drops should be preferred, in addition to ointment and gel forms. Topical anti-inflammatory agents (Cyclosporine 0.1%, hydrocortisone phosphate, fluorometholone) should be used for 3-6 months in cases of ocular surface damage. The therapy of evaporative DED includes lifestyle modifications, lid hygiene (either performed by the patient or offered as professional lid hygiene by the physician), use of lubricating eye drops with lipid components, topical and/or systemic antibiotic treatment with anti-inflammatory properties and Intense Pulsed Light (IPL-) Treatment for meibomian gland dysfunction.