Ocular discharge

Question 1

Role of meibomian glands?

Answer 1

Secrete oil onto surface of eyes to prevent rapid evaporation of tear film

Question 2

Define blepharitis

Answer 2

Inflammation of the eyelid margins

Question 3

Causes of blepharitis?

Answer 3

meibomian gland dysfunction (common, posterior blepharitis)
or
seborrhoeic dermatitis/staphylococcal infection (less common, anterior blepharitis).

Blepharitis is also more common in patients with rosacea

Question 4

Presentation of blepharitis?

Answer 4

Bilateral presentation
Grittiness and discomfort - around eyelid margins
Sticky eyes in morning
Red eyelid margins
Swollen eyelid if staph blepharitis
PMH of stye or chalazion
May also have secondary conjunctivitis as a result

Question 5

Management of blepharitis?

Answer 5

Soften lid margin - use hot compress 2x a day
Lid hygiene - remove debris from margin
Artificial tears - for symptom relief, esp in pts with dry eyes