Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jun 10, 2026

In Vivo Confocal Microscopy: A Standard Operating Procedure for the Detection of Demodex Mites at the Eyelid Margin
Published on: July 3, 2025
Pathogenic role of Demodex mites in blepharitis
Jingbo Liu1, Hosam Sheha, Scheffer C G Tseng
1Ocular Surface Center, and Ocular Surface Research & Education Foundation, Miami, Florida 33173, USA.
Purpose Of Review:
To summarize the key literature and our research experience regarding Demodex infestation as a potential cause of ocular inflammatory diseases with a special emphasis on Demodex blepharitis.
Recent Findings:
Two distinct Demodex species have been confirmed as a cause of blepharitis: Demodex folliculorum can cause anterior blepharitis associated with disorders of eyelashes, and D. brevis can cause posterior blepharitis with meibomian gland dysfunction and keratoconjunctivitis. Tea tree oil treatments with either 50% lid scrubs or 5% lid massages are effective in eradicating mites and reducing ocular surface inflammation.
Summary:
Demodex blepharitis is a common but overlooked external eye disease. The pathogenesis of Demodex blepharitis in eliciting ocular surface inflammation has been further clarified. The modified eyelash sampling and counting method makes it easier and more accurate to diagnose Demodex infestation. Tea tree oil shows promising potential to treat Demodex blepharitis by reducing Demodex counts with additional antibacterial, antifungal, and anti-inflammatory actions.
Related Concept Videos
Microbiome of the Eye
The Skin Microbiota
Acne Infection
Accessory Structures of the Skin: Sebaceous Glands
These glands that produce the oils on the skin and hair are holocrine glands. The mature...
Accessory Structures of the Eye
Cell Motility through Blebbing
Blebbing Through the Matrix
In multicellular...

