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How to promote and preserve eyelid health

Authors Benítez-Del-Castillo J

Received 19 April 2012

Accepted for publication 3 July 2012

Published 25 October 2012 Volume 2012:6 Pages 1689—1698

DOI https://doi.org/10.2147/OPTH.S33133

Checked for plagiarism Yes

Review by Single anonymous peer review

Peer reviewer comments 2



Jose M Benitez-del-Castillo

Ocular Surface and Inflammation, Department Ophthalmology, Hospital Clinico San Carlos, Madrid, Spain

Abstract: Disorders of the lacrimal functional unit are common in ophthalmological practice, with meibomian gland dysfunction, blepharitis, and dry eye forming a significant part of the general ophthalmologist's practice. The eyelid and its associated structures form a complex organ designed to protect the fragile corneal surface and improve visual acuity. This organ is subject to a number of disorders, including meibomian gland dysfunction, dry eye syndrome, anterior blepharitis, allergic and dermatological conditions, and disorders associated with contact lens use. Although commonly described separately, disorders of the lacrimal function unit are better considered as a group of interacting pathologies that have inflammatory mediators as a central feature. Eyelid hygiene, in the sense of routine cleansing and massage of the eyelids, is well accepted in the management of many disorders of the eyelid. However, a broader concept of eyelid health may be appropriate, in which eyelid cleansing is but a part of a more complete program of care that includes screening and risk assessment, patient education, and coaching. The ophthalmologist has an important role to play in helping patients persist with routine eyelid care that may be long-term or lifelong. A number of preparations exist to make routine eyelid care both more effective and more pleasant, and might also improve compliance. Several such preparations have been devised, and are being assessed in clinical studies, and appear to be effective and preferred by patients over traditional soap and water or baby shampoo.

Keywords: eyelid, disorders, health, lacrimal functional unit

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