Demodex blepharokeratoconjunctivitis affecting young patients: A case series.

Area of Science:

• Ophthalmology
• Dermatology
• Parasitology

Background:

• Demodex mites are a common cause of ocular surface disease.
• Blepharokeratoconjunctivitis in pediatric and young adult patients is often misdiagnosed.
• Chronic red eyes with corneal involvement can indicate Demodex infestation.

Observation:

• A retrospective review of 14 young patients diagnosed with ocular demodicosis.
• Patients presented with chronic red eyes and corneal involvement, with symptom duration ranging from 2 months to 20 years.
• Common misdiagnoses included allergic conjunctivitis and viral keratitis.

Findings:

• Demodex infestation was confirmed via eyelash sampling.
• Treatment involved 50% tea tree oil lid scrubs and oral ivermectin.
• 13 out of 14 patients responded to treatment, with 13 patients discontinuing steroids within 3 weeks.

Implications:

• Demodex infestation should be considered in young patients with chronic blepharokeratoconjunctivitis, even with good hygiene.
• Simple eyelash examination can confirm demodicosis.
• Prompt diagnosis and treatment can prevent long-term complications associated with steroid use.