Blepharitis classification

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Editor-In-Chief: C. Michael Gibson, M.S., M.D. [2]

Overview

Blepharitis may be classified according to the location of the disease into 2 subtypes: anterior and posterior.

Classification

There are two types of Blepharitis:

1. Anterior blepharitis affects the front of the eyelids near the eyelashes. The causes are seborrheic dermatitis (similar todandruff) and occasional infection by Staphylococcus bacteria.
2. Posterior blepharitis affects the back of the eyelids, the part that makes contact with the eyes. This is caused by the oil glands present in this region. It is by far, the most common type of blepharitis.

Staphylococcal Blepharitis

Staphlycoccal blepharitis is a type of external eye inflammation. As with dandruff, it is usually asymptomatic until the disease progresses. As it progresses, the sufferer begins to notice a foreign body sensation, matting of the lashes, and burning. Usually, the primary care physician will prescribe topical antibiotics for staphylococcal blepharitis. Unfortunately this is not an effective treatment.

This ailment can sometimes lead to a chalazion or a stye.

Seborrheic Blepharitis

Seborrheic blepharitis, the most common type of blepharitis, is usually one part of the spectrum of seborrheic dermatitisseborrhea which involves the scalp, lashes, eyebrows, nasolabial folds and ears.

Treatment is best accomplished by a dermatologist.

Posterior Blepharitis or Rosacea Associated Blepharitis

The most common type of blepharitis is often found in people with a rosacea skin type. The oil glands in the lid (meibomian glands) secrete a modified oil which leads to inflammation at the gland openings which are found at the edge of the lid.