[Blepharitis due to Demodex: myth or reality?].
OBJECTIVE
Demodex folliculorum has been incriminated in the development of blepharitis although much controversy persists. Certain authors suggest that Demodex is a direct pathogen in chronic palpebral conditions while others consider the saprophyte to be innocuous to skin.


METHODS
We conducted a prospective study of eyelashes in 100 persons, searching for Demodex folliculorum and chronic blepharitis. Microscopy in immersion oil after storage in a moist chamber was performed.


RESULTS
The incidence of Demodex folliculorum was very high in patients with blepharitis compared with normal controls. Incidence increased with age. Harmless cuffs around the base of the eyelashes was found in 4% with Demodex irradior.


CONCLUSIONS
Demodex should be considered as the cause of chronic blepharitis. Anti-Demodex treatment is indicated when the parasite is found.
Service d'Ophtalmolgie, CHU Habib Bourguiba, Sfax, Tunisie.
B
B
Kamoun
M
M
Fourati
J
J
Feki
M
M
Mlik
F
F
Karray
A
A
Trigui
S
S
Ellouze
B
B
Hammami
M
M
Chaabouni
A
A
Ayadi
D000328:Adult; D000367:Age Factors; D000368:Aged; D000977:Antiparasitic Agents / Q000627:therapeutic use; D001762:Blepharitis / Q000188:drug therapy / Q000469:parasitology*; D017043:Chalazion / Q000469:parasitology; D002908:Chronic Disease; D003231:Conjunctivitis / Q000469:parasitology; D005140:Eyelashes / Q000469:parasitology; D005141:Eyelid Diseases / Q000469:parasitology; D006801:Humans; D015994:Incidence; D007634:Keratitis / Q000469:parasitology; D017669:Mercury Compounds / Q000627:therapeutic use; D008875:Middle Aged; D008924:Mite Infestations / Q000175:diagnosis* / Q000188:drug therapy; D010087:Oxides / Q000627:therapeutic use; D011446:Prospective Studies
D000977:Antiparasitic Agents; D017669:Mercury Compounds; D010087:Oxides; C019468:mercuric oxide
Blépharite à Démodex: mythe ou réalité?