Demodex blepharitis triggers negative psychosocial, functional effects
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BOSTON – Most patients with Demodex blepharitis said the disease negatively affected their daily life in some way, with complaints such as ocular discomfort, difficulty driving at night and appearance, researchers reported here at the American Academy of Optometry annual meeting.
Leslie O’Dell, OD, FAAO, and colleagues conducted an observational study at 24 U.S. eye care centers to evaluate the impact of Demodex blepharitis on quality of life, visual function and motivation for seeking care.
According to the study’s clinical examination criteria, study patients had at least 1 mite per lash, more than 10 collarettes and at least mild erythema of the upper lid margin. Those who met the criteria completed a questionnaire covering symptoms, quality of life and treatment experience.
Of the 311 patients who met the qualifications, mean age was 67 years (range 23 to 92 years), and 62% were female.
Fifty-one percent said they experienced signs and symptoms for more than 4 years, 58% said they were never diagnosed with blepharitis, and 33% went to at least two doctor visits, according to the presentation.
The most frequently experienced symptoms included itchy eyes (55%), dry eyes (46%), foreign body sensation (23%) and tearing (21%). Subjects reported trying artificial tears (47%) and warm compresses or lid wipes (46%). Forty-three percent said they discontinued treatments because they were ineffective or intolerable.
Eighty percent of patients said Demodex blepharitis negatively affected their daily life. The most frequent complaints included: being conscious of their eyes all day, constantly worrying, difficulty driving at night, difficulty wearing make-up and extra time for daily hygiene.
“Blepharitis affects approximately 20 million Americans, of whom 45% have an associated Demodex mite infestation,” O’Dell and colleagues said. “Demodex blepharitis creates a significant symptom burden as well as important functional and psychosocial effects that lead patients to seek treatment.”
The researchers recommended that clinicians look for collarettes at the slit lamp by asking patients to look down. They also said that more effective treatments may positively affect quality of life for these patients.
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O’Dell L, et al. Impact of Demodex blepharitis on patients. Presented at: American Academy of Optometry annual meeting; Nov. 3-6, 2021; Boston.
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