Demodex Blepharitis: Indian Scenario - aioseducation

Best of Best Free PapersRESULTSDemodex mite was seen in 31 of 72 (43.05%) patients with blepharitis and 8 of72 (11.11%) in the control group. Further analysis of the study group showedthat the prevalence was higher in males, elderly and in individuals withincreased severity of blepharitis (Table 1).Table 1: Prevalence of Demodex infestation based on demographicand clinical characteristics in the study groupAge Number of patients Demodex positive Percentage70 11 9 81.8Grading of blepharitisMild 14 3 21.4Moderate 36 11 30.5Severe 22 17 77.2SexMale 38 19 50Female 34 12 35.2DISCUSSIONThe higher prevalence of Demodex in the study group as compared tocontrols in the current study suggests that it plays a key role in pathogenesisof blepharitis. The pathogenesis of Demodex blepharitis includes directmechanical damage by the mites resulting in follicular distension that maycontribute to loose or misdirected cilia. Microabrasions caused by the clawsof the mite can lead to reactive epithelial hyperplasia and hyperkeratinizationwhich is clinically manifested as cylindrical dandruff at the base of eyelashes.Demodex mite may also act as vector for bacteria and its wastes or debrismay ellicit inflammatory response via delayed hypersensitivity or innate hostresponse.The higher prevalence of Demodex in males can be attributed to higher numberof sebaceous glands in the males. Also, the use of eye make-up in females mayplay a role as chemicals in the make-up may be toxic for the mites. Further,individuals who frequently apply make-up are likely to clean their facial skinmore regularly and thus have better lid hygiene.The prevalence of Demodex infestation increases with age. The newborns arefree from mites and individuals get colonized while growing up from adultfamily members. The higher rate in elderly can also be attributed to declining

Best of Best Free Papers5. Liu J, Sheha H, Tseng SC. Pathogenic role of Demodex mites in blepharitis. CurrOpin Allergy Clin Immunol. 2010;10:505-10.6. Inceboz T, Yaman A, Over L, Ozturk AT, Akisu C. Diagnosis and treatment ofdemodectic blepharitis. Turkiye Parazitol Derg. 2009;33:32-6.