Demodex as an etiological factor in chronic blepharitis

Authors

  • Witold Tarkowski Optical Center in Tarnow; TG Pharma Sp. z o.o in Warsaw. Poland
  • Krzysztof Grzyliński TG Pharma Sp. z o.o in Warsaw. Poland

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.5604/01.3001.0014.5538

Keywords:

Demodex, chronic blepharitis, cilium hair follicle, pathogenesis, tear-film, Meibom’s gland dysfunction, dry eye syndrome

Abstract

Chronic blepharitis are examples of conditions of the ocular surface and ocular protective structures, which ophthalmologists encounter in their daily practice. The aetiology and pathogenesis of these diseases with their signs and symptoms remain unclear. Many reports point to Demodex mites as the aetiology of certain eye and skin conditions, hence it is highly probable that infestation with these mites may also play a role in the aetiology and pathogenesis of chronic blepharitis. Two species of the Demodex mites parasitize in humans: Demodex folliculorum and Demodex brevis. Demodex spp. are found in people all over the world. With age, the percentage of people infected is increasing, which is nearly 84% at the age of 60. These parasitic mites may contribute to the development of inflammation of the margin eyelids not only directly, but also indirectly, as the so-called vector for disease-causing bacteria and fungi. The aim of the study was to investigate the presence of Demodex in the hair follicles of eyelashes and their potential participation in the aetiology of chronic blepharitis. Studies carried out in the group of 237 people (92 people with chronic blepharitis and 145 people without chronic blepharitis) clearly indicate the existence of positive corelation between existence of D. folliculorum and D. brevis and occurrence of chronic blepharitis. Confirmation of the positive correlation of demodex and chronic blepharitis in Poland population provides further evidence for the pathogenic role which is performed by the mites in the development of eye diseases.

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 Cykl rozwojowy nużeńca Demodex spp

Published

2020-10-22

How to Cite

Tarkowski, W., & Grzyliński, K. (2020). Demodex as an etiological factor in chronic blepharitis. Science, Technology and Innovation, 9(2), 57–66. https://doi.org/10.5604/01.3001.0014.5538

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Original articles