Demodex Folliculorum and Blepharitis

Abstract

For many years Demodex folliculorum has been recognized as an inhabitant of the pores of the skin, particularly in the face. Except for a detailed study by Stcherbatchoff in 1903, only casual reference has been made to its presence in the eyelid structures of man. Freshly collected material from the pores and eyelashes, placed in glycerin, can be examined readily under the low power microscope for the presence of the organism. In some patients the association of a Demodex infection of the eyelids and blepharitis appear to be associated etiologically. Satisfactory, if not ideal, eyelid treatment has been devised through the careful use of Selsunef ointment. * Concurrent treatment of Demodex infestation of the face is imperative to prevent reinfection of the eyelash structures.