Multidisciplinary perspectives in Demodex blepharitis: A new view of treatment from clinical, payer, and patient perspectives.

Abstract

Demodex infestation is the cause of more than two-thirds of all cases of blepharitis in the United States. Although symptoms may include crustiness, redness, or itching of the eyelids, diagnosis can be accomplished through a simple examination of the eyelashes. The presence of a waste product of the Demodex mite, known as collarettes, on the base of the eyelashes is a pathognomonic sign of Demodex blepharitis. Demodex infestation that results in blepharitis may cause blockage and ultimately atrophy of the meibomian glands, worsening dry eye disease. Until recently, management of Demodex blepharitis has been limited by a lack of approved therapy options. Lotilaner ophthalmic solution 0.25%, the first approved therapy for treatment of Demodex blepharitis, has not only been shown to eradicate Demodex mites in one-half to two-thirds of patients following short-term treatment but also demonstrated continued benefits through 1 year of follow-up. In addition to managing Demodex blepharitis, treatment with lotilaner ophthalmic solution 0.25% may aid in the management of dry eye disease and other forms of ocular surface disease caused by complications of Demodex infestation. As a result, it is possible that successful management of Demodex blepharitis may reduce chronic use of health care resources dedicated to managing other chronic ocular conditions. As eye care professionals recognize Demodex infestation as a key mediator of ocular surface disease, increasing diagnostic awareness and addressing this underlying cause of Demodex blepharitis may reduce the need for specialist follow-up care, decrease the need for chronic therapy, and improve patient outcomes. Through routine screening for Demodex infestation and Demodex blepharitis, eye care professionals can now address an underlying factor in ocular surface disease to improve use of health care resources in the community.