Abstract
Purpose:
This study aimed to identify the presence of demodex and associated signs in patients seen for routine eye exam.
Methods:
The clinical parameters evaluated were degree of meibomian gland dysfunction (MGD), lash distention, lash appearance, and cylindrical dandruff (CD). Each clinical sign was rated on a scale of 0-4. If CD was observed (rating of G1-G4), the following protocol was followed: 1. Lashes were epilated. 2. Lashes were placed on a glass slide, a cover slip and drop of saline/fluorescein dye was applied to the slide. 3. Examination performed with a Celestron LCD microscope (objective lenses: 40x, 100x, 400x).
Results:
Demodex blepharitis was present in 32.4% of all subjects. MGD (G1+) was observed in 33.1% of all subjects, and of those, 46.8% were comorbid with CD and demodex blepharitis. Lash distention (G1+) was observed in 26.1% of all subjects, and of those, 89.2% were comorbid with CD and demodex blepharitis. Greasy and/or oily lashes (G1+) were observed in 31.0% of all subjects, and of those, 77.3% were comorbid with CD and demodex blepharitis.
Conclusions:
Demodex is present in the majority of patients with lash distention (89.2%) and greasy/oily lashes (77.3%). Additionally, almost half of MGD patients have demodex present (46.8%).