Opinion
Video
Risk Factors and Mental Health Impact of Demodex Blepharitis
Dr. Yeu examines risk factors for Demodex blepharitis, including patients with diabetes and immunosuppression.
This is a video synopsis/summary of a discussion involving Elizabeth Yeu, MD.
Dr. Yeu states that although socioeconomic status and hygiene are not risks for Demodex blepharitis, potential associations exist with older age, diabetes, immunosuppression, glaucoma drops, and contact lens wear. She notes that Demodex is a non–self-resolving process that increases over time, so likely manifests with greater severity in older patients. Critically, Demodex blepharitis has substantial psychosocial impact that is often overlooked. Data from the Atlas study showed that 80% of patients feel the disease negatively affects their daily life, with nearly half reporting self-consciousness about their eyes, difficulty driving at night, and problems wearing eye makeup. One-third of patients needed extra time for lid hygiene. Half of patients had symptoms for more than 4 years and one-third saw doctors for 2-plus years without a blepharitis diagnosis. This demonstrates the under-recognition of this condition. In summary, various medical conditions may increase risk for Demodex blepharitis, which increases with age. However the psychosocial burden is significant and warrants increased awareness to facilitate prompt diagnosis and treatment.
Video synopsis is AI-generated and reviewed by AJMC editorial staff.
