The Unique Challenges of Demodex Blepharitis

An exploration of the critical aspects of the condition’s diagnosis and management.

M. Amir Moarefi, MD

Cataract and Refractive Surgery Today

Blepharitis—a common ocular condition characterized by inflammation of the eyelids—can have various etiologies (see 10 Causes of Blepharitis). Demodex infestation is a significant contributor to blepharitis and affects approximately 25 million individuals in the United States.1 Demodex blepharitis (DB) presents unique challenges for diagnosis and management.1 This article explores DB’s etiology and clinical presentation, diagnostic methods, treatment options, and preventive measures. 10 CAUSES OF BLEPHARITIS Understanding the different causes of blepharitis1 is crucial for accurate diagnosis and effective management. No. 1: Staphylococcal blepharitis This condition is usually associated with anterior blepharitis due to staphylococcal bacteria, particularly Staphylococcus aureus. Patients with staphylococcal blepharitis frequently present with symptoms such as crusty, red eyelids and irritation along the eyelid margins. No. 2: Seborrheic blepharitis This form of blepharitis is associated with seborrheic dermatitis, a chronic inflammatory skin condition that can affect the eyelids. Patients with seborrheic blepharitis may exhibit greasy, flaky scales on the eyelid skin as well as redness and itching.2 No. 3: Meibomian gland dysfunction Dysfunction of the meibomian glands contributes to posterior blepharitis.

Foundations: The Journey of Neda Squared in Ophthalmology

Neda Shamie, MD; and Neda Nikpoor, MD

Eyetube

In the premiere episode of Neda Squared, hosts Neda Nikpoor, MD, and Neda Shamie, MD, weave through their personal and professional journeys in ophthalmology, highlighting the serendipitous meetings and shared values that have shaped their careers. They delve into the transformative power of mentorship, the impact of global medicine initiatives, and their commitment to authentic patient care.

Adopting Remote Monitoring and AI: Lessons From Cardiology

Learning from colleagues in other medical specialties can guide ophthalmology’s smooth transition.

Judy E. Kim, MD, FARVO, FASRS, and Jagmeet P. Singh, MD, ScM, PhD, FHRS, FACC

Retina Today

AT A GLANCE The use of remote monitoring and AI is inevitable in the field of retina. However, concerns related to workflow, liability, and reimbursement hinder its adoption in day-to-day practice. Cardiology has found remote monitoring and AI to be fundamental to modern practice, benefitting both patients and providers. By learning about cardiology’s experience with adopting remote monitoring and AI in clinical practice, ophthalmologists can anticipate (and adjust for) the new era in medicine. The more ophthalmology embraces remote monitoring, the better it can meet the needs of patients and reduce treatment burden. As regulatory bodies move closer to approving home-based imaging platforms, such as home OCT and AI-based software, ophthalmologists must prepare for more data-driven care. To learn more about what this transition entails, ophthalmology can turn to other specialties with experience in widespread adoption of AI and remote monitoring. Although we practice in separate domains of medicine—retina (Dr. Kim) and cardiology (Dr. Singh)—we share a passion for improving patient care through technology.